CWA: Telecom Policy Should Promote Open Internet, Investment

CWA reaffirmed the need for U.S. telecom policy to combine the goals of ensuring an open Internet with encouraging investment in a 21st century broadband system, in response to a new initiative announced by FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski.

CWA supports Genachowski's proposal to develop rules to protect an open Internet, but also called on the FCC to move forward in setting rules and policies that will encourage investment, ensure reasonable network management, safeguard transparency, promote media diversity and lead to the growth of good jobs in the telecommunications industry.

That's the only way the United States can regain its standing among industrial nations as a leader in broadband technology, CWA said. 

In the past, the U.S. missed several opportunities to promote the build out of broadband networks. This is more important than ever, if the U.S. is going to encourage investment in next-generation networks and boost our lagging economy. Get more info at www.speedmatters.org.

Currently the U.S. ranks 15th in the world in terms of broadband penetration and 28th in terms of broadband speed. CWA's Speed Matters campaign will continue to focus public attention on what the U.S. must do to ensure that all Americans have access to the promise of high speed Internet.