Washington — Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Commerce ranking member Bill Nelson and five colleagues introduced a $1 trillion infrastructure package today that would include $20 billion for the buildout of broadband infrastructure for underserved areas. We applaud this latest proposal which highlights an area of great importance where we hope leaders across the spectrum can unite in common purpose.
Internet buildout is an issue that has bipartisan support on Capitol Hill and in the executive branch. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai has expressed support for the idea in recent months, and President Trump made infrastructure improvements a major campaign issue.
The Computer & Communications Industry Association has long advocated broadband buildout as a way to boost and strengthen the economy. The following can be attributed to CCIA President & CEO Ed Black:
“Our economy depends on connectivity, and we need higher speeds and stronger broadband networks to remain competitive. Broadband buildout done properly would create a wave of jobs and leave better access to high speed broadband for more citizens in its wake. Broadband buildout is an issue that does have and should have broad, bipartisan support. We appreciate the steps Democrats and Republicans are now taking to make their shared goals a reality for the thousands of citizens who need high speed internet access and the jobs that would bring.”