July 2009

Despite spending enormous amounts on Web-based initiatives, government agencies often fail to meet users' needs online. By employing new governance models, investing in Web capabilities, and embracing user participation, agencies can raise the effectiveness of their online presence.

Center for Democracy and Technology President Leslie Harris and Google public policy chief Alan Davidson on Friday dismissed a recent Technology Policy Institute report that argues there is a trade-off between increasing Internet privacy protections for consumers and the free flow of Web-based goods and services. Harris said "In Defense of Data: Information and the Costs of Privacy" should be renamed "In Defense of Straw Men." "Privacy and having a robust marketplace online are not inconsistent," she said at a Capitol Hill event sponsored by TPI.

The government has officially redeemed more coupons than it could have paid for with the original funds set aside for the DTV-to-analog converter box coupon program, though there will likely be some funds left over from the larger allocation. According to the most recent figures from the National Telecommunications & Information Administration (as of July 22), the government has redeemed 33,578,000 of the $40 coupons that allow viewers to continue to receive a digital TV signal on an analog set. The original $1.34 billion in funding for the program would have covered 33.5 million of the $40 coupons. Democrats had long argued the program was underfunded.

Verizon Wireless, the largest US wireless provider, is hoping to placate policy makers who are seeking more regulation for cell phone and mobile Internet companies. "The world has changed. Washington has changed," said Verizon Wireless spokesman Jeffrey Nelson. "It's imperative that we negotiate with legislators in a way that recognizes they're in new roles." Verizon's overtures come in the wake of questions from lawmakers and regulators about whether there is room for smaller competitors in the wireless market. Verizon also is addressing new government players overseeing its actions. Verizon's letter on roaming agreements was addressed to the new chairman of the powerful House Commerce Committee, Rep Henry Waxman (D-CA) after Verizon officials held a series of meetings with Waxman's staff. Chairman Waxman believes any carrier that accepts federal funds should be required to provide roaming services to other companies on a just and reasonable basis. Verizon's offer to provide roaming agreements to competitors for two years is a significant departure from earlier stances in which the carrier said it shouldn't be required to offer roaming to competitors in areas where they have their own spectrum. Verizon's statements also are being watched by the Federal Communications Commission, the main cop on the beat for the wireless industry. The FCC is still in its formative stages under President Barack Obama. FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski took the helm only a month ago, and two other FCC commissioner nominees are still waiting for Senate confirmation. But Verizon's efforts are getting a few yawns from competitors and consumer advocates.