Better broadband for us all

[Commentary] There is a simple, vital step the Federal Communications Commission can take now to make affordable, dependable, high-speed Internet available to millions more Americans. A petition filed by local governments in Wilson (NC) and Chattanooga (TN) invites the FCC to set aside state laws that prevent municipally-owned broadband networks from expanding to serve willing customers in neighboring areas. By granting the localities’ request, the commission would introduce competition -- along with pressure to lower rates and improve services – into markets now controlled by a single Internet Service Provider. Clearly American consumers need a cop on the beat to restrain ISP malfeasance and let communities choose the broadband they need.

[O'Boyle is program director for Common Cause's Media and Democracy Reform Initiative.]