Time to Regulate the Internet?

Today, as the FCC considers greater regulation of the Internet, everyone from consumers to Internet pioneers is proclaiming the importance of maintaining a free and open Internet.  What exactly is at stake for Americans?  The ability for consumers to control their online experience - not to mention the fast-paced innovation and generous investment that has made broadband what it is today.  With the net regulation debate raging, our latest Broadband Now video discusses this timely topic that has implications for us all.

Who's talking about the outcome of greater government control on the Internet?  Here are a few highlights we're discussing in this edition of Broadband Now:

• Investment and Jobs.  In defense of a free and open Internet, Verizon CEO Ivan Seidenberg noted his company alone invested $80 billion in communications networks in the past five years.  He also highlighted a study that reports every $10 billion increase in digital investment creates nearly 500,000 U.S. jobs.
• Innovation.  How will the FCC define "reasonable network management?"  Innovators are concerned a government-led approach will slow the Internet's evolution - a particular concern among network engineers, and the "Grandfather of the Internet," David Farber, who fears this policy shift could be disastrous for consumers and innovation.
• A Growing Chorus of Concern.  Even Google, a long-time champion of a more regulatory approach, recently changed its tune.  On the day the FCC issued its proposed rules, Google's CEO said "It is possible for the government to screw the Internet up, big-time."  And, meanwhile the ranks continue to grow, with well-respected experts questioning the need for the government having a larger day-to-day role in our Internet.

For more insights on Internet regulation, tune into our latest Broadband Now video.