Telecommunications Act of 1996 deregulates telecom, classifies internet as information service

President Bill Clinton signs the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the first major overhaul of telecommunications law in 62 years. The law represents a pro-competitive deregulatory framework designed to accelerate deployment of advanced telecommunications and information services. Crucially, the Act defines internet services as "information services" rather than "telecommunications services," exempting them from common carrier regulation under Title II. This classification becomes foundational for internet regulation for the next two decades and allows internet providers to operate with minimal regulatory oversight.