Course Description:
The incorporation of internet protocol technology into traditional communications technologies is causing the competitive convergence of voice, video and data markets. “Intermodal” competition has begun between telephone and cable television firms (DSL vs. Cable Modem) and is expanding to include fixed wireless, satellite and broadband over electric power lines. This convergence of technology and markets calls into question the continued relevance and utility of separate regulatory paradigms for telecommunications (voice), cable television (video) and computers (information services). Convergence of network functionality and markets is reshaping historic federal and state regulatory and legal distinctions regarding jurisdiction, ownership, access, speech and public policy. This course introduces students to the evolving federal and state regulation of broadband networks. Emphasis is placed on students learning to recognize, understand and anticipate the changing relationships between technology, competition, regulation and law. There are no prerequisites for this course. Approved IP LL.M. course.
