Broadband Affordability Act provides opportunity

Representative Doris O. Matsui (CA-05) has introduced the Broadband Affordability Act (H.R. 3646) in Congress.  The Act is being considered by the House Energy and Commerce Committee. This bill would create a program to help low-income Americans in rural and urban areas subscribe to broadband, providing an essential link to educational, health, and job opportunities -- and much more.

Broadband Internet has become a necessity in the digital age. It breaks down geographical boundaries and connects people with endless opportunities. With broadband, children in low-income families can get access to homework help and other educational materials. Families in rural regions can receive specialized medical care from doctors thousands of miles away. And unemployed Americans can view job listings and training services to help them get back on their feet. Today's troubled economy makes the opportunities created by broadband even more important -- but it also makes it even harder to afford. The Broadband Affordability Act will help change that, giving needy Americans the tools they need to lift themselves up.

Communications Workers of America (CWA) and the United Auto Workers (UAW) have endorsed the Act.

Congresswoman Matsui’s Broadband Affordability Act Receives Key Endorsement from CWA (OBS News)

CWA-UAW Legislative Alliance Letter on the Broadband Affordability Act