12/3/2017
To FCC Commissioners,

This message is offered as public commentary for the FCC proceeding WC Docket No. 17-108 “Restoring Internet Freedom”.

I urge you to retain net-neutrality regulation and reject 17-108.  Current regulatory constraints on internet service providers help prevent consumer abuse and maintain a better environment for commerce and innovation.  Docket 17-108, as proposed, will not achieve the goal stated in its title.  

I am the owner of two small technology businesses that rely heavily on broadband internet connectivity.  In my geographic area, I have only two choices of broadband telecommunication provider, and both have reputations for poor service.  This near-monopoly situation does not present features of a competitive market.  Apparently, there are similar situations in geographic areas all over the country.  Not good.

There are many reasons to predict that services provided by these companies will be poorer and more expensive if their services are deregulated. Allowing these companies to restrict content, charge more, and prevent potential competitors from running fiber on utility poles predictably makes the problem worse, not better.  

Based on US history in the electrical power and telephony industries, if our stated goal is innovation, optimal service, and nurturing of small businesses, unregulated monopoly is the worst situation to cultivate.  Monopolies infamously use their dominance to crush competitors in the startup phases; which clearly stifles innovation and competition.      

In order for modern businesses to flourish, the internet fabric must be fast, stable, and affordable.  This requires regulated management like any other public utility.

I urge you to retain net-neutrality regulation.  Existing regulation serves US strategic interests more effectively than 17-108.  

Jeffrey Menoher
Ridgefield CT