December 3, 2020
WASHINGTON, DC – In a joint letter to Congressional leaders, the nation’s leading trade associations representing the broadband, wireless, internet, streaming and tech industry are calling for immediate action to support and fund critical broadband infrastructure and services that help connect all Americans during this time of great need.
The letter urges House and Senate leaders to support bipartisan legislation, before year-end, that provides funding for broadband service for families and students, that clarifies extension of the current CARES Act for network deployment through 2021, and that ensures that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has funding to develop accurate broadband maps.
The letter was signed by twelve trade associations, including: USTelecom | The Broadband Association, INCOMPAS, the Fiber Broadband Association, U.S. Chamber Technology Engagement, Rural & Agriculture Council of America, Computer & Communications Industry Association, WISPA, TechNet, Connect Americans Now, WIA – the Wireless Infrastructure Association, Internet Association, and NCTA – The Internet & Television Association.
Citing the industry’s commitment to keeping Americans connected during the COVID-19 crisis, the letter states, “America’s broadband, communications infrastructure, cloud, and application providers have kept our communities connected and provided tools to help us live remotely. Even as the global economy closed down, America’s internet has remained open, strong, and resilient, ensuring our nation and our families can continue to work, learn, and function.”
The letter says Congressional action will support schools and businesses as they close again, offering a lifeline to health services, continuing education, and skilling and employment opportunities.
Read a copy of the letter here.
USTelecom | The Broadband Association is the national trade association representing technology providers, innovators, suppliers, and manufacturers committed to connecting the world through the power of broadband.