WASHINGTON, DC - The Communications and Technology Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR), today discussed ways to promote broadband infrastructure investment in an environment with ever-growing demand for fixed and mobile broadband access.
“Broadband Internet access has become the communications and commerce tool of our time…It has literally changed the old rules for how we live our lives. Which begs the question: why are we using old rules to regulate new networks?" said Walden. “We hope that today’s hearing will start a discussion that reinvigorates a national debate on the best policies for continuing the model of private network investment that has made the United States a world leader in broadband."
“There is an incredible infrastructure that makes tasks that once took hours and even days as simple and as instant as a click or a swipe. In Michigan and across the country, we all are reaping the benefits. But if we, as a country, are to continue our leadership in the global technology industry, we must have policies that promote investment in the infrastructure to support it," added full Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI). “My hope is that the discussion today will shed light on challenges to the economics of broadband networks and ideas that will help us replicate conditions that have already led to successful broadband deployment."
Witnesses shared their thoughts on how Congress can help resolve issues involved in broadband infrastructure and create a better environment where broadband can thrive:
Jonathan Adelstein, President and CEO of PCIA:
“One suggestion for Congress to consider that would alleviate roadblocks to wireless siting at the local level would be removing requirements that a provider demonstrate ‘proof-of-need’ or show a ‘gap- in-service’ when siting a wireless facility."
Craig Moffett, Senior Research Analyst at Moffett Nathanson:
“It is simply the case that broadband is an infrastructure that is very difficult to support two of, and in some case, even one of. And I would submit that a clear-eyed acknowledgement of the microeconomics of the broadband business deserves, or even demands, a seat at the policy table."
Michael Slinger, Director of Google Fiber Cities:
“Policymakers can do more to help reduce delays associated with obtaining adequate information and make-ready work, and increasing access to existing conduit and rights of way."
Deb Socia, Executive Director of NextCentury Cities:
“The federal government can play a central role in helping to empower local communities across the country. Our policy agenda outlines a number of concrete actions that Congress, including Members of the Subcommittee can undertake: Provide a National Platform… Mandate National Data Collection… Encourage Competitive Local Markets…"
Stephen Roe Lewis, Governor of the Gila River Indian Community, Arizona:
“The challenges are big but we do have tools that can help us overcome them. One of the key tools that we know can help is tribal consultation and engagement. Having a government-to-government commitment to engage with one another on important policy decisions is critical to ensuring that policies do not have unintended consequences."
Read full witness testimony and watch the hearing HERE. See Also
* #SubCommTech to Review Proposals to Improve Broadband Deployment
