WASHINGTON-The Telecommunications Industry Association voiced support Wednesday for new legislation to foster funding of high-speed Internet access for distance learning, telemedicine and other programs in rural America.
The Rural Renaissance Act is sponsored by Sen. Norm Coleman (R-Minn.).
“This legislation is visionary in its approach to ensure that Americans in even the most rural settings can access the same broadband capabilities that most businesses and citizens in urban areas can access today,” said TIA President Matthew Flanigan. “The $50 billion this measure seeks to raise through the selling of bonds is a resourceful way to fund network development in rural areas without placing the burden on the American taxpayer. Furthermore, the prospect of several hundred million dollars being injected into the telecom sector through the purchase of new equipment for rural networks is a welcome sign to the manufacturers TIA represents and will help to create jobs in our industry.”
