SpeedMatters.org Features Speed Test, New Blog

As part of CWA's Speed Matters campaign, the union is promoting the Internet speed test feature on its www.SpeedMatters.org site, which will collect nationwide data on actual download and upload speeds in each region by zip code.

You can check your own Internet service speed at the site and then click on the "Tell Your Friends" button to spread the word about SpeedMatters.org. The data we gather from the speed test will be used with elected officials and regulators in promoting the need for public policy to spur the rollout of truly high speed network services.

The site also features a regularly updated blog with news about broadband applications such as the growing practice of tele-psychiatry, and issues like "rural red-lining." A posting this week by Mike Day of CWA Local 1400 describes CWA's participation in a public hearing in Vermont on Verizon's plan to sell its local phone business in upper New England. CWA members and others stressed that economic growth and job creation depend on modern communications, and rural states will be left behind unless politicians take action.

Also new at SpeedMatters.org are a new brochure summarizing CWA's key principles and policy recommendations for high speed services as well as a lengthier policy paper. These and other materials can be downloaded for local leaders and activists to use in promoting Speed Matters with policy makers.