Regulation

A coalition of 14 free market organizations, including the Institute for Policy Innovation, urged the Federal Communications Commission to approve a private deal between Verizon and cable companies that will free currently unused spectrum to help alleviate the growing “spectrum crunch” that many wireless consumers – particularly those in densely populated areas of the country – are already feeling.

The notion of DC picking winners and losers by means of technology mandates is both odious and destructive to an innovative future.

The policy agenda laid out by the president demonstrates the hubris of Big Government solutions better than anything any conservative could ever say or do.

In tomorrow night’s State of the Union address, President Obama should put forward proposals to unchain the economy from high taxes, out-of-control spending, and burdensome regulations, said Institute for Policy Innovation (IPI) president Tom Giovanetti.

Instead of guarding their own turf, the FCC should begin to guard American innovation by freeing up the raw materials without FCC dreamt-up conditions.

The City of Longmont, Colorado is considering providing not only Wi-Fi but also a whole package of telecommunications services, from voice to broadband to video, which would put the municipality in direct competition with multiple private companies. But market-oriented solutions are more efficient and less risky. Adopting the failed model of municipal networks is a mistake, as many municipalities across the country can attest.

So if the goal is to lower unemployment, create jobs, increase investment and boost federal revenue, how should it be done? 

Rather than stifling regulatory competition by centralizing regulation, insurance companies should be allowed to choose between an optional federal charter and mutual recognition among state regulators. Such expansion would create a 21st century regulatory system in which they can be globally competitive and better serve the American consumer.