[VOIPSEC] VOIP for free??

[Geoff Devine]

Brian Rosen writes:

>While I expect that we will see some very "light touch" regulations on U.S.
VoIP service providers, I don't think that we can count on that to get the
kind of service we want.  
 
I don't think this is clear yet.  Historically, 911 services have been provided by state and local government.  911 tandems and public service answering positions are typically paid for by adding a monthly tax to subscriber phone bills.  One could argue that it's very poor public policy to allow rich people who can afford broadband access to opt out of paying the telecom taxes that subsidize things like 911 and universal access.  A number of states have started moves to regulate VoIP 911 conformance.  This will all end up in the courts and I don't think anyone can predict the outcome.
 
Geoff