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Broadband Deployment Overwhelms Net Regulation in Maine
June 8, 2007
This past spring the state of Maine saw a "net neutrality" initiative defeated. The original proposal (LD 1675) would have jeopardized not only broadband deployment, but also the jobs that accompany the investment.
Fortunately, the Maine legislature voted this week to replace the original bill with a study that both recognizes the jurisdiction of the federal government as well as puts an emphasis on protecting broadband deployment. Neither of which were goals of the original bill.
The Video Access Alliance would like to offer our congratulations to the Maine legislature for its commitment to creating an environment that will promote the deployment of broadband. The investment and deployment of the broadband infrastructure will provide opportunities for new applications as well as diverse content to be offered, both of which will benefit consumers.
Unfortunately, millions of Americans are unconnected, most significantly in rural areas, where broadband access is scarce or nonexistent. Mainers know this reality all too well as the deficit in available technology has robbed rural Maine of endless opportunities. Broadband offers to make life better for everyone who has access and the means by which to harness it.
The legislation voted on this week, sponsored by Senator Barry Hobbins, asked the Public Advocate to monitor the FCC's broadband analysis and any related impact on the Governor's ConnectMaine program.
Earlier this year Senator Hobbins commented on the net neutrality legislation saying, "(The legislation) goes beyond the principles created by the FCC 'to encourage broadband deployment and preserve and promote the open and interconnected nature of the public Internet.' If enacted, the legislation would fundamentally change the workings of the Internet here in Maine and most certainly hinder the investment we so desperately need."
The Video Access Alliance is a not-for-profit organization designed to serve as an advocacy and advisory group for independent, emerging and minority networks, content providers, independent film producers, video programmers, entertainers, and other industry participants. The Alliance is focused on promoting policies that encourage rapid and ubiquitous deployment and utilization of new and innovative video distribution platforms.
CONTACT: Julia Johnson, Chairwoman
800-539-1470
www.videoaccessalliance.org
