On February 2, the Washington Post reported that the Federal Communications Commission will begin consideration of a proposal to intervene against state laws in Tennessee and North Carolina that limit Internet access operated and sold by cities. The following statement can be attributed to Benton Foundation Director of Policy Amina Fazlullah:
“The Benton Foundation is gladdened by news that the Federal Communications Commission will restore local choice for broadband. In too many states, limitations on community broadband have restricted local efforts to create jobs, raise property values, and provide other economic benefits. When community leaders believe they must act to improve local broadband networks, they should have the power to craft local solutions – even if that means a community providing its own broadband if it decides that is its best option. Benton applauds the leadership of FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler who, on numerous occasions over the past year, has recognized and acted upon the importance of competition in the broadband marketplace.”