Now is a critical time in the development of the Internet with the move from narrowband, circuit switched services to broadband, packet services. Historically cable operators have used their exclusive control over the cable facility to gain control over programming and video content. Now cable operators have exclusive control over broadband technology and are attempting to use this control to dominate Internet access. For consumers, the danger of this model is that the broadband network will be a closed, proprietary network, and will differ dramatically from the open, non-discriminatory access that consumers enjoy today. When utilizing broadband technology for Internet services, consumers are without choice as to which Internet Service Provider they wish to utilize, the consumer must use the cable company's Internet service.
Cable companies are in a unique position to leverage their existing near monopoly market power.
Such cable providers possess the unique facilities to offer broadband technology and they are virtually without regulation regarding the provision of these services and technologies. The City of Los Angeles is in a strategic position to address consumer issues as a Cable Franchising Authority with sufficient jurisdictional authority. UCAN urges the City of Los Angeles to adopt a policy of equal access regarding cable companies as Internet Service Providers. Broadband technology is the future of Internet service. The Internet has proven itself as the most dynamic engine for economic growth ever created and it has the potential to expand and transform artistic, social and political discourse.