California's upcoming open fiber network could make fast broadband more accessible

California might soon make it practical for small internet providers to deliver speedy broadband, not just well-heeled incumbents. Ars Technicareports that the state Assembly and Senate have unanimously passed legislation that will create a statewide open fiber network that promises truly fast internet access from smaller ISPs, particularly in rural or otherwise underserved areas. The strategy will devote $3.25 billion to the construction of a "middle-mile" network that won't directly connect cu...