PITTSBURGH, March 16, 2010 – “The Federal Communications Commission should be applauded for preparing a National Broadband Plan that points the way toward ensuring that every American and every private and public institution are connected to the most transformative technology to come along in centuries. ACA looks forward to working with Chairman Genachowski on turning these ideas into reality.
“Based upon an initial review of the plan’s executive summary, ACA is pleased to see a number of areas where the FCC’s proposals align closely with suggestions ACA proposed to the agency. First, the plan calls for the creation of a new Universal Service Fund for wireline broadband service, called the Connect America Fund, that will be funded by reallocating billions of dollars from the USF’s existing voice service program. Second, the plan calls for new rules that ensure service providers, like small cable operators, can access infrastructure, such as poles, conduits, and rights-of-way, efficiently and at fair prices, which is particularly important for smaller providers in rural areas. Third, the plan calls for expanding the Lifeline and Link-Up programs by allowing subsidies provided to low-income Americans to be used for broadband.
“We look forward to the release of the full National Broadband Plan, where we’ll get a more complete understanding of the FCC’s recommendations for ensuring every American has access to broadband capability.”
About the American Cable Association
Based in Pittsburgh, the American Cable Association is a trade organization representing nearly 900 smaller and medium-sized, independent cable companies who provide broadband services for more than 7 million cable subscribers primarily located in rural and smaller suburban markets across America. Through active participation in the regulatory and legislative process in Washington, D.C., ACA’s members work together to advance the interests of their customers and ensure the future competitiveness and viability of their business. For more information, visit https://acaconnects.org/