Local Broadband Networks: A New Regulatory Philosophy

Abstract

Over the next decade, the use of fiber optics technologies will fundamentally alter information transmission. New broadband delivery techniques will render the current telecommunications regulatory structures obsolete. In this Article, the author reviews the potential uses of fiber optics and the economic and legal issues that should be considered when forming a new regulatory policy. The author proposes a new regulatory philosophy based upon competition and separate regulation of information transmission and information services. The current regulatory policies must be changed to promote optimal local network construction. The author proposes a regulatory structure to encourage the development of local broadband transmission facilities and provide a thriving marketplace for novel information services