In an essay for the journal Democracy, Rob Atkinson and Doug Brake outline the policies to guide a much-needed update of U.S. communications laws. They argue we should continue to rely on dynamic, facilities-based competition, preserving incentives to invest and innovate in networks. Also important are strong programs to spur adoption and close the digital divide. By focusing on light-touch, facilities-based competition and getting everyone online—and not getting bogged down by red-herrings like net neutrality—we can drive broad economic growth throughout the 21st century that will benefit all Americans.
