Matsui Statement on FCC Broadband Adoption Study Released Today

The recent survey conducted by the FCC demonstrates the need for bold action to bridge the digital divide in this country. The survey identifies that the high cost of broadband services is the main reason that lower-income households are not connecting to in-home broadband services, even when services are available. As part of any plan to substantially increase broadband adoption rates, including in the National Broadband Plan expected to be released in March, programs must be in place to help Americans overcome these cost barriers.

FOR IMMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, February 23, 2010

CONTACT: MARA LEE
(202) 225-7163

Today, Congresswoman Doris O. Matsui (D-CA) issued the following statement in response to the comprehensive survey released this morning by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), whose findings conclude that the cost of broadband services and digital literacy are the main barriers to broadband adoption in the United States:

The recent survey conducted by the FCCdemonstrates the need for bold action to bridge the digital divide in this country. The survey identifies that the high cost of broadband services is the main reason that lower-income households are not connecting to in-home broadband services, even when services are available. As part of any plan to substantially increase broadband adoption rates, including in the National Broadband Plan expected to be released in March, programs must be in place to help Americans overcome these cost barriers.

H.R. 3646, the Broadband Affordability Act, would require the FCC to create a program for universal broadband adoption, similar to the current Lifeline Assistance Program with the Universal Service Fund. The legislation will ensure that lower-income Americans have access to affordable broadband services. A program like this would address the affordability barriers that prevent millions of Americans from accessing broadband services at home and leaves far too many on the other side of the digital divide.

The FCC has an historic opportunity to promote policies to help close this nation's digital divide as part of its National Broadband Plan. As the FCC continues its work on the National Broadband Plan, I urge the FCC to include a plan for universal broadband adoption, similar to my proposal, in its set of recommendations.