Government policies for the telecommunications industry will be a significant factor in determining whether Massachusetts reaps the benefit of its competitive advantage in information-based industries, such as those identified by Dr. Porter. It is therefore crucial that we successfully address the current challenges of communications policymaking, and foremost among these challenges is the transition from a monopoly environment to competitive markets. As Congress considers changes to the Communications Act of 1934 and states adopt new regulatory policies, we should focus on the goal of opening all telecommunications markets to effective competition. Competitive markets will increase the industry's economic efficiency, provide more choices for consumers, and encourage innovative development of new telecommunications services. This favorable regulatory climate, coupled with significant demand for sophisticated telecommunications services, makes Massachusetts one of the most competitive environments in the country for telecommunications.
Dial tone is available from a multiplicity of vendors in many of our commercial centers.
Studies suggest that competitive telecommunications markets offer significant benefits to the national economy. Development Telecommunications networks will be the transport media for the industries that provide Massachusetts with a competitive advantage. However, unlike transport infrastructure such as roads and bridges, telecommunications infrastructure does not necessarily require government funding. Nor is it necessary for government to determine which technologies are best, how fast investment should be made, or what geographic areas should be targeted for investment. For the development of an information superhighway that will serve customers' needs in the most efficient and cost-effective manner, the best incentive that government can provide is to ensure competition and free markets.