The Public Internet Option: How Local Governments Can Provide Network Neutrality, Privacy, and Access for All

As the Federal Communications Commission in the Trump era dismantles vital rules protecting net neutrality and users’ privacy, Americans need an internet provider that they can trust and is accountable to the public, not profits. Municipal governments can provide this by offering broadband service themselves and implementing the net neutrality and privacy protections that are no longer required of private companies by federal policies. Hundreds of cities, towns, and counties around the country have already turned to community broadband, often providing faster and cheaper service than for-profit telecoms. And, municipally-owned broadband providers can honor net neutrality and privacy values, regardless of what the FCC does or doesn’t do. With these public systems, communities can ensure that internet service is provided in an equitable way. In offering public broadband service, local governments need to make sure that access is consistent with free speech values and respects net neutrality principles. That means enacting strict anti-censorship rules and establishing clear oversight processes to enforce these principles. Municipal systems should be built to serve all residents equally, regardless of a neighborhood’s income or racial make-up. Public Wi-Fi services, which can help increase internet accessibility, should be as open as possible, without requiring accounts, logins, or complex sign-up procedures. Wired customers should also be allowed to run open-access points that anyone can use.