How Telecom Monopolies are Blocking Better Internet Access, and What We Can Do About It

Monopoly control of broadband technology is leaving many Americans unable to access high-speed internet. In particular, the market power of the biggest cable companies allows them to lock customers into overpriced, underperforming Internet service contracts for which they don’t have an alternative. This report argues that community-scaled ISPs are more effective at delivering fast, affordable, and reliable Internet, and provides recommendations for state and local policymakers that encourage competition and empower community networks. These recommendations include giving local governments the ability to build broadband networks, allowing cities to issue bonds for broadband infrastructure, collecting ISP data, establishing a broadband grant program, and more.