Although FTTH is an incredible form of technology and more communities across the world are implementing community broadband networks, legislation in the United States has continued to work against these networks.

There are now 19 states that have enacted some form of barrier against the formation of broadband networks for local communities. Large telecommunications companies have managed to use their reach to persuade state legislatures to alter the rules surrounding broadband networks, making local efforts nearly impossible.

Strict bans have now been enacted in AR, MO, NE, and TX while De Facto bans have been enacted in NV, PA, and VA. There are numerous other barriers brought forth in states such as AL, CO, FL, LA, MI, MN, SC, TN, UT, WA, and WI.

These barriers have resulted in higher bills and poor customer service (due to lack of funding/manpower). Some states have even removed protections, allowing providers to determine who will get service.

Overall, there is tremendous pressure on these often-times smaller community providers, resulting in a battle between provider versus state. Expansion, deployment and general progress of these broadband networks have been hit as a result of these statewide barriers.
All information received from bbpmag.