Hope For Montana

Breaking news that the FCC will propose classifying broadband Internet as a utility isn't just about speed...for rural states such as Montana, this could mean rural areas would receive SERVICE!. This proposal was outlined yesterday (Wednesday) by FCC Chair Tom Wheeler. High-speed, broadband Internet would be classified as a utility under the proposal & the free wheeling Wheeler says the regulations are needed to keep service providers from blocking access to sites or slowing down connection speeds. Whitney Kimball Coe at the Center for Rural Strategies says there's also HOPE that the classification will lead to service being extended to small communities, similar to basic telephone service. Internet providers have rejected such regulation, claaiming it would harm investment & innovation, although Mr. Wheeler is promoting the plan as a way to encourage more innovation. Kimball Coe says the proposal reflects the importance of being connected in today's world. She submits, "We believe it's a human right. The ability to communicate & have access to places where you can contribute knowledge & also gain knowledge-that just seems to be a basic human right at this point." I'm the Puffman & the way I see it is that "we'll have victory here yet."