For about 3 months I had both dsl and cable. Cable wanted to sell so bad they gave it to me for free. I found during that time that dsl was way more reliable. No down time at all. Cable would go out anytime, and usually right in the middle of something important.
Also, dsl was cheaper and just as fast really.
As for the blocking, they may very well be checking their ability to block gambling. That anti-gambling bill was re-introduced this week, as well.
They can’t block porn because of free speech issues, but they are so worried about teenagers gambling. It’s all about the Benjamins, folks!