Economists have long recognized that technological innovation and enhanced communication increase productivity and reduce friction in economic activity. And never before has technology’s impact on economic growth been as evident as it is today.
At IPI, we focus on technology and communications policy not only because it’s critical to economic growth, but also because government’s inherent tendency to regulate prospectively poses an active threat to the economic gains and lifestyle enhancements made possible by technological innovation.
The communications and technology industries are among the country’s most competitive and the biggest capital investors in the U.S. economy, and are thus prime engines of economic growth and job creation. It is critical that public policy encourages continued innovation and investment in the tech sector, and that we don’t limit the innovation upside with counterproductive taxes and regulations.
Quantum Improvements at the FCC
The FCC must be legislatively restructured to prevent future abuse of the agency’s power.
Broadband Privacy Act Coalition Letter
Coalition letter to congressional leadership urging the use of the authority provided in the Congressional Review Act to rescind the Federal Communications Commission’s Broadband Privacy Order.
Email Privacy Could Be a Quick Win for Trump and Congress
Congress could chalk up an easy bipartisan victory for taxpayers if both the House and Senate determined to pass the Email Privacy Act on January 28, Data Privacy Day, and send it to President Trump for signature.
Time to Put an End to Rule by Regulators
It’s time to permanently rein in the FCC’s scope and authority by passing laws that limit its powers.
The Worm in Netflix's Apple
Instead of succeeding through private, free-market negotiations, Netflix chose to lobby for favorable treatment from government regulators.
Is Using Your Mobile Phone a Sin?
Governments at all levels have demonstrated a gluttonous appetite for revenue, and one of government’s favorite tactics is to attach high taxes to high demand products and services.
Gross Violations of Fourth Amendment Right to Electronic Privacy
This week’s news should make passage of the Email Privacy Act a no-brainer, but for the sole opposition of Senator Cornyn.
FCC Chairman Delays His Ill-Advised Set-Top Box Proposal
FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler today pulled his ill-advised set-top box proposal from a scheduled vote, which is a good thing. The proposal has not been made public for comment and review, exceeds the FCC's jurisdiction, and creates significant new problems.
Transparently Hypocritical at the FCC and Public Knowledge
The FCC is slated to vote on a controversial set top box proposal by Chairman Wheeler that no one outside the FCC has seen.