House committee is unanimous: Speed matters

There was encouraging news out of Washington today. The House Energy and Commerce committee unanimously approved the Broadband Census of America Act (HR 3919), which would require the FCC to collect more thorough and more detailed data on current high speed Internet deployment in the United States.

The legislation is sponsored by Rep. Edward Markey, who has consistently been a strong advocate of universal high speed Internet access. His bill incorporates key elements of the Speed Matters campaign -- most notably a call for better data collection. That is the essential first step toward conquering the digital divide.

CWA President Larry Cohen had this to say about today's victory:

"In order for our country to move forward to ensure that a 21st century Internet is available for all, we need better data to help us get there. This measure will greatly improve the quality of that information and we commend Chairman John D. Dingell and Representative Edward J. Markey, who chairs the Telecommunications and the Internet subcommittee, for their efforts to move this important measure forward."

Next up, this legislation will be considered on the floor of House of Representatives, and similar legislation is being considered in the Senate. Stay tuned to SpeedMatters.org for the latest updates on these important bills.

Broadband Census of America Act (HR 3919)

Mapping bill raises hope for quick action by Congress (Speed Matters)

The slow path to high speed (Speed Matters)

Senator Inouye Introduces Broadband Data Improvement Act (Speed Matters)