LogFAQs > #936442878

https://qz.com/1826043/the-coronavirus-crisis-proves-internet-should-be-a-public-utility/

The spread of the novel coronavirus around the world has made many of us shut-ins and proven conclusively that the internet should be a public utility. Its a basic necessity in the 21st century, like running water, gas, and electricity. Indeed, the United Nations in 2016 declared that internet access is a human right.

Internet service providerslike Comcastrecognize this, as evidenced by recent announcements that in these unusual times theyre relaxing data restrictions, offering free service for a limited period, suspending disconnections, and hooking up new customers. Meanwhile, many American public schools have issued laptops to students who couldnt afford them, hoping the extended disruption to studies wont disproportionately affect the poor, although this doesnt necessarily mean every kids household will be connected to the internet.
That is all very nice for now. But these charitable actions only highlight the need for widespread access regardless of economic circumstances.

Perhaps after the pandemic panic gives way to a new state of normalcy, the people will demand inexpensive and reliable high-quality broadband, and maybe private internet service providers will have to sing a different tune. They already recognize that access is essential, based on their response to the coronavirus quarantines. That will make it harder to walk back the admissions and concessions theyre making today, and they may well find that if they dont want to keep playing nice, a time will come when theyre no longer necessary because the game has totally changed.

Some snips from an article that should be fucking common sense, but apparently needs to be stated.
Imagine if we were forced to stay inside w/o internet. No teleworking. No online banking. No Amazon or other online services. It's a fucking joke that cable television is considered a utility but internet service is not.