The Telecommunications Act of 1996 (TCA) was passed to streamline the development of telecommunications infrastructure in the United States, enabling faster deployment of wireless technology. While this legislation helped foster the rapid expansion of mobile networks, it also included provisions that have since proven detrimental to public health. One of the most significant and controversial […]
Telecommunications Act of 1996
Troubled History of the 1996 Communications Act and John McCain’s Irony: From Cell Tower Denials to Brain Cancer
The Telecommunications Act of 1996 was meant to usher in a new era of telecommunications, simplifying regulations and expanding access to emerging technologies. However, embedded in this landmark legislation were flaws that allowed the consolidation of industry power and made it difficult for communities to voice concerns about health risks associated with telecommunications infrastructure, particularly cell […]
FCC Cell Phone Radiation Standard and Tort Immunity by Implied Conflict Preemption
FCC Cell Phone Radiation Standard and Tort Immunity by Implied Conflict Preemption I. Introduction [1] Cell phones emit low-level radiation.[1] Constantly.[2] [2] From 1992 to 1998, Dr. Christopher Newman used his cell phone for nearly 350 hours—about ten minutes per day.[3] When he developed a tumor on the side of his head where he used […]
