Telecommunications: Competition Policy in the Telecommunications Space

Abstract

In today’s rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape, the development of new technologies and distribution platforms are driving innovation and growth at a breakneck speed across the Internet ecosystem. Broadband connectivity is increasingly important to our civil discourse, our economy, and our future. What is the proper role of government in facilitating robust investment and competition in this critical sector? When technology companies constantly have to reinvent themselves and adapt to survive – what role should government play? This panel of experts at the Federalist Society’s 2014 National Lawyers Convention discussed the current regulatory environment and how government policies – particularly regarding transactions and the Open Internet proceeding – could affect the competitive marketplace.

Keywords: Communication law, antitrust, competition law, markets, innovation, Internet, broadband connectivity, net neutrality, regulatory burdens, policymaking, data analysis, wireless communications, comparison with Europe

JEL Classification: K21, K23, L86, L96, O33