In November, Broadband for America attended the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL) Annual Summit to make relevant connections concerning how broadband can aid in growing communities, creating jobs and gaining a voice through online advocacy for issues that affect Hispanic and Latino communities.

A representative from Broadband for America spoke with former FCC Commissioner Henry Rivera to ask his opinion on the importance of broadband Internet access and the role state legislators play in providing that access to unserved or underserved areas. According to Rivera, 54 percent of the Latino community does not have access to broadband at home, and it should be a priority to bridge the digital divide. Commissioner Rivera’s comments can be viewed on the Broadband for America website here.

Rhode Island State Senator and Vice President of Public Policy for NHCSL, Juan Pichardo, spoke with Broadband for America about the economic impact broadband Internet has on the State of Rhode Island. "When we look at business, we identify broadband as a tool that will be with us forever. I strongly believe our communities need to embrace this and learn it, and also find ways to develop new business opportunities, not only for Rhode Island but across the country," Senator Pichardo commented. Senator Pichardo’s comments can be viewd on the Broadband for America website here.

More video footage from the NHCSL Summit can be viewed here.