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Rural Telecommunications Subsidies Do Not Help

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  • Ward, Michael R.

Abstract

The common justifications for government subsidies for rural telecommunications are to promote universal service and to promote economic development. While the case for subsidizing many rural telephone services is stronger than for more urban settings, it is still weak and subsidy implementation has likely been corrupted by rent seeking practices. Because of this and because many newer technologies tend to reduce rural disadvantages, a policy of limiting subsidies is likely efficient.

Suggested Citation

  • Ward, Michael R., 2007. "Rural Telecommunications Subsidies Do Not Help," Journal of Regional Analysis and Policy, Mid-Continent Regional Science Association, vol. 37(1), pages 1-3.
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:jrapmc:132985
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.132985
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    6. Eriksson, Ross C & Kaserman, David L & Mayo, John W, 1998. "Targeted and Untargeted Subsidy Schemes: Evidence from Postdivestiture Efforts to Promote Universal Telephone Service," Journal of Law and Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 41(2), pages 477-502, October.
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    Cited by:

    1. Whitacre, Brian E. & Mahasuweerachai, Phumsith, 2008. "“Small” Broadband Providers and Federal Assistance Programs: Solving the Digital Divide?," Journal of Regional Analysis and Policy, Mid-Continent Regional Science Association, vol. 38(3), pages 1-15.
    2. Casasbuenas, Jaime & de Oliveira, Fernando & Riobó, Alexander, 2014. "Effective subsidies to the demand for fixed broadbandwith an increase in penetration and an undistorted competition landscape: The Colombian case," 20th ITS Biennial Conference, Rio de Janeiro 2014: The Net and the Internet - Emerging Markets and Policies 106900, International Telecommunications Society (ITS).

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