3. Wireless spectrum

The existing wireless spectrum usage rules did not promote competition and failed to deliver benefits to end-users. A lack of competition and fair usage rules in the wireless space are key obstacles that hold back new innovation. Obama promised a thorough review of the existing wireless spectrum uses. Additionally, he wants government agencies that control the wireless spectrum to define a "smarter, more efficient and more imaginative use."


4. H-1B visas and offshoring

Job offshoring is a reality of our time, a trend that is driven by cost and globalization factors. Obama promised he would eliminate tax breaks to the companies which ship domestic jobs overseas, a move that could prove to be difficult, especially if offshoring is required in required global expansions of companies. However, Silicon Valley is likely to benefit from Obama's proposal to increase the number of H-1B non-immigrant visas needed to recruit foreign guest workers. The increase in granted H-1B visas could appear in sharp contrast with measures to reduce outsourcing, but it will actually allow tech companies to recruit highly specialized engineers and scientists to increase their competitiveness. Of course, that strategy needs to go in hand with a greater focus on education and enable U.S. companies to find the talent they need on these shores.


5. Privacy
 
Unfortunately, our privacy legislation appears to be always one step behind when it comes to high tech and online scenarios. Obama proposed increased security for electronic health records to and new measures to restrict the use of personal information stored in electronic databases. Cyber-criminals are also on Obama's agenda: The President-elect promised he would improve the Federal Trade Commission enforcement budget to battle spam and fund the fight against phishing and malware.

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