The December issue of InfoTech & Telecom News reports members of Congress, both Republicans and Democrats, are expressing growing concern about plans by the Federal Communications Commission to impose network neutrality regulations.
Also in this issue:
- A federal judge has given his preliminary approval to Google’s plan to digitize tens of millions of out-of-print books, with a final decision expected in mid-February in a case rife with copyright and antitrust questions.
- Some $4.7 billion in federal broadband stimulus funds is attracting applications from companies all over the country–and even above it. Aircell is seeking $65 million, saying broadband is as valuable on airplanes as in underserved land communities.
- The chairman of the House Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet has an ambitious agenda for greater regulation of the Internet, especially regarding privacy.
- In an exclusive interview, Larry Downes, author of The Laws of Disruption: Harnessing the New Forces That Govern Business and Life in the Digital Age, says government is always behind the curve in the digital age.
- Faced with budget woes and spotty service, St. Cloud, Florida is shutting down its city-owned and -operated free wireless broadband service, another in a growing list of municipal wi-fi failures.
- The Federal Trade Commission has instituted new rules, effective December 1, requiring all bloggers to reveal any ties they have to products they review in a “clear and conspicuous” manner or face fines of up to $11,000 per offense.
Jim Lakely
Jim Lakely is the Vice President and Director of Communications of The Heartland Institute.
