The Nation's voice networks are in the midst of multiple transitions that promise to change how we communicate. First, the transmission infrastructure that carries our voice communication is moving away from reliance on copper to fiber optics. Next, the so-called "circuit-switched protocols" that have long underpinned traditional telephone service are transitioning to newer Internet protocols, or IP systems. And finally, many Americans are choosing to substitute wireless service for traditional wired voice communications. However, there may be challenges that consumers, carriers, and the...

The Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act (STELA), and its legislative predecessors, have served to help satellite television operators provide their subscribers with access to broadcast TV channels thus allowing these companies to compete on a level playing field with other providers in the video marketplace. The driving force behind these laws are the worthy goals of ensuring not only that consumers have access to the programming they desire, but that they have a choice of provider in a competitive marketplace that fosters better content, more services, and lower prices. These...