Why don't we pay for connectivity in rural communities?

The Tech Policy Summit in Silicon Valley begins today examining the individual, corporate and government influence and responsibility in establishing policies online.

Walt Mossberg currently interviewing James Cicconi asks "Why does the United States suck at bandwidth?" This question, taking a look at the availability, variety and quality of connectivity.

Cicconi responds that some of the problem will be helped when competition increases speed. When asked by a member of the audience whether AT&T might charge those in densely populated area more, in order to support connectivity into rural areas, Cicconi said that "Regulators frown upon this".

I would like to know why. Is it because they (we, as consumers, and subsequently carriers) fear customer attrition? Where does the responsibility fall, to the individual, the carriers, the FCC or legislators in Washington DC (who, mentioned this morning by U.S. House of Representatives Congressman Howard Berman, are still catching up on the technology curve.)?

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