Today, Energy and Commerce Ranking Member Henry A. Waxman (D-CA), Democratic Leader Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and Communications and Technology Subcommittee Ranking Member Anna Eshoo (D-CA) released a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report showing a strong connection between federally funded high-speed internet access and the success of small businesses. This report shows that when there are opportunities for fast and reliable internet connections, small businesses have better chances to succeed.
The following can be attributed to Chris J. Lewis, Vice President of Government Affairs at Public Knowledge:
The GAO report confirms that smart investments in communications infrastructure for unserved and underserved communities bring entrepreneurs the opportunity to innovate and compete globally. It's no surprise that many localities are looking to build municipal fiber networks in order to ensure affordable access to essential 21st century networks. This demonstrates Sen. Patrick Leahy's (D-VT) wisdom in creating a program to support gigabit networks in rural areas within the Farm Bill.
“It is important to note that the Federal Communications Commission is looking to preempt state laws that prohibit state options for Federal broadband and plans to conduct rural broadband pilots. This report shows that these actions are both timely and necessary.”
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