Broadband for All – A Fools Errand or the Key to Economic Prosperity?
It’s been almost ten years since the Federal Communications Commission released its National Broadband Plan and policymakers continue to bicker over the best way to catalyze the expansion of broadband networks to remote and sparsely populated areas. A number of programs aim to fill the access gap including a revitalized FCC Universal Service program, a new mapping effort, new and old state and local programs, and the possibility of funds from a federal infrastructure stimulus. And, despite a long list of failed government efforts, some continue to advocate for the government to construct broadband networks to compete against the private sector. In the meantime, the lack of regulatory clarity on privacy and net neutrality hangs like a Sword of Damocles over firms’ investment decisions. How should policymakers respond? What can they do to clear away regulatory underbrush, minimize regulatory asymmetry and otherwise inject clarity and certainty into the Internet economy? To explore these important and complex questions in detail, we have once again assembled a stellar panel of seasoned experts.
6:00 – 7:00: Drinks and Light Fare
7:00: Welcome: Lawrence Spiwak, President – the Phoenix Center
7:05 - 7:15: Brief Overview of Recent Research: Dr. George Ford, Chief Economist – The Phoenix Center
7:15 – 7:45: Keynote Discussion with Federal Trade Commission Commissioner Christine Wilson
7:45 – 8:30: Panel Discussion:
- Shane Tews, Visiting Fellow – American Enterprise Institute;
- Hank Hultquist, Vice President – Federal Regulatory, AT&T;
- Joanna McIntosh, Senior Vice President – NCTA; and
- Robert Quinn, Partner – Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP
8:30: Conference Adjourns