AFL-CIO Joins CWA's Campaign for Universal High-Speed Broadband

The AFL-CIO has endorsed CWA's campaign to bring high-speed Internet access to all Americans, recognizing that the United States has fallen far behind other countries in connection speeds and affordability.

"A vibrant national economy depends upon world-class digital networks to stimulate job-creating innovation and economic growth. "Moreover, investment in high-capacity networks by union employers creates opportunities for good union jobs," the AFL-CIO Executive Council statement said.

CWA President Larry Cohen presented the resolution, "Speed Matters: High-Speed Internet for All," at the council's Chicago meeting this week.

The resolution calls for a national broadband policy in the United States. The goal is to make a digital network available to all Americans by 2010 with connection speeds of at least 10 megabits per second.

The resolution notes that the United States has fallen to 16th in the world in terms of the availability of broadband for citizens. And Americans' access is slower and more costly: DSL averages $30 to $50 a month for speeds of 3 megabits per second or less while cable modems cost $40 to $50 for speeds of 3 to 5 megabits. In Japan, for instance, a connection with a speed of 26 megabits per second costs about $22. And many Americans in rural and low-income urban areas don't have access to any high-speed connection.

"Union members develop the content, build and maintain the networks and service the customers of high-speed communications networks. We must take the lead to ensure universal, affordable access to high-speed networks, quality service and quality jobs, and responsible corporate practices and consumer protections," the statement said.