As reported on CNet, Kevin Martin has been selected by George W. Bush as the next FCC chairman. Why is this important to IPTV you may ask? The simple answer is that the hands-off approach Martin's predecessor, Michael Powell, demonstrated has propelled the broadband revolution. During his term, broadband and voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) regulation was very limited in nature, which has sprung VoIP providers all over the map.

While in office, Powell rallied a free-market approach to VoIP specifically and to broadband in general. This approach on broadband, has helped spur telecom providers such as Verizon and SBC to start laying fiber and build triple-play networks (Data, Voice, TV) over the Internet.



Knowing that Martin falls along those lines means we can continue to see this technology pace continue. Naturally, increased regulation is inevitable, but it will take some time to slow down the train Powell has started during his tenure.

Martin "has a record of supporting the administration's broadband policy, and that is good news for consumers and the communications sector," said Tom Tauke, Verizon Communications executive vice president for public affairs.

Herschel Abbott, BellSouth's vice president for governmental affairs, said Martin's "focus on enabling the rollout of broadband for consumers demonstrates a 21st century view of the communications marketplace. His skill and energy make him an outstanding choice to take over the chairmanship."

You can read the full article at CNet.