SLC Regional Resource | April 2016

The Role of State and Local Government in Broadband Deployment

Stephanie Noble

On January 29, 2015, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) redefined "broadband internet." Under the new definition, broadband internet connection must meet benchmark speeds of 25 megabits per second (Mbps) for downloads and 3 Mbps for uploads. Such speeds allow multiple users (or devices) within a household to browse the web and stream video simultaneously, or allow a single user to stream high definition video. The Commission's redefinition of broadband—more than six times its previous download speed benchmark of 4 Mbps—reflects the growing ubiquity of the Internet and aims to ensure the infrastructure has the capacity to meet new, data-intensive usage and its derived benefits.

This SLC Regional Resource examines the role of states in broadband deployment and its relationship to municipal and federal initiatives, with particular attention to the needs of rural areas, and the successes of Southern cities and towns. Notably, this SLC Regional Resource focuses on government-owned broadband infrastructure and direct service provision, though other policies and incentives are discussed broadly. It does not address private alternative internet service providers.

Policy Analysis | February 2016

Inspection of Amusement Park Rides

Stephanie Noble

Industry background. Most amusement parks undergo independent inspection by insurance companies and private safety firms, in addition to government agencies. ASTM International (formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials) hosts a committee (F24) on voluntary consensus standards for amusement rides and devices, including within its scope: amusement ride testing, maintenance, operations and inspections. The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) formally supports state regulations based on these standards, and tracks relevant state and federal legislation. Saferparks, a consumer safety advocacy group, also participates in F24 standard setting, and offers some state-by-state information regarding regulatory oversight of amusement rides.

Continue Reading

Policy Analysis | January 2016

State Authority to Admit Refugees: Background and Recent Developments

Stephanie Noble

State Authority to Admit Refugees: Background and Recent Developments

Continue Reading