Broadband for America Responds To Newly-Released Commerce Department Data

While Increase In Broadband Internet Usage Is Positive, More Work Needs To Be Done

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Honorary Co-Chair of the Broadband for America (BfA) coalition Michael K. Powell issued the following statement in response to newly released data from the Department of Commerce concerning broadband Internet usage:

 “Today’s news that U.S. broadband usage has increased with 64% of households subscribing to high-speed Internet is a real and positive development particularly since the numbers reflect an increase from 51% just a few years ago.  The increase in the number of Americans using broadband Internet is a direct result of major network providers investing $100 billion in the past two years alone in their networks, which has created jobs, contributed to the economy and allowed more people to go online.  This also speaks to the fact that we have more work to do to make sure every family and business in America has access to the Internet.  The reality is that millions of Americans have the capability to connect to broadband Internet, but have not adopted this critical tool necessary for job creation and enhancing the quality of life of our nation’s citizens.  Broadband for America is committed to closing the gap between the connected and unconnected and in the process creating more opportunities and growth in a 21^st Century economy.”

Broadband for America (BfA) is a growing coalition of over 170 members ranging from independent consumer advocacy groups, to content and application providers, to the companies which build and maintain the Internet. The complete BfA membership list is available at: http://www.broadbandforamerica.com/about/members

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