US national broadband policy: live or Memorex?

[Commentary] Life, Liberty and... the right to a broadband connection? In July, Federal Communications Commission member Michael Copps suggest broadband access should be considered a civil right. The commissioner's speech is an idea that's being reflected in the actions of some state, local and even federal government efforts to expand broadband availability. But while these efforts are encouraging, they are a far cry from what we really need: a national broadband policy that can bridge between the broadband haves and have nots. Part of this divide is attributed to the fact that many of the large service providers have a mentality that they can get more of a quicker return on investment (ROI) if they go after the more affluent communities. A national broadband policy in the U.S. could have a number of positive implications. For one, it could enhance the education experience in both affluent and poorer communities with greater Internet access and enhanced distance learning applications. In addition, having more expanded broadband capabilities could encourage more telecommuting and take more people off the roads. Unfortunately, such a broadband policy is more political ballyhooing that will likely continue as the fall presidential election nears.