Telecommunications
Topics:
»»Broadband »»911 Communications »»Related Press
________________________________________________________________________
"As a member of the House Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet, my top priorities are improving public safety, encouraging innovative new technology, and protecting consumers."
— Congressman Bart Gordon
With the many advances in technology, people are able to communicate in faster, more cost-effective and innovative ways than ever before. With these advances, it is important we do not sacrifice safety and privacy.
Expanding Access to Broadband for All Americans
High speed internet access is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity for the economic survival of communities large and small across the United States. I supported including $7.2 billion in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to speed deployment of broadband networks in unserved and underserved areas. I also support modernizing the Universal Service Program, which ensured all Americans have access to affordable phone service, to include access to affordable broadband service. This will be especially important to the economic future of rural areas throughout Tennessee and the rest of the country. In addition, I support changing the nation’s spectrum auction rules to encourage the deployment of innovative new wireless broadband technologies to help bring less expensive broadband services to more Americans.
Improving Public Safety and Encouraging Innovation
Internet phone or Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) services are revolutionizing the telephone industry by driving down costs, improving quality and increasing competition. While these are all good things, consumers shouldn’t have to choose between lower prices and their personal safety. I authored the NET 911 Improvement Act, which was signed into law on July 23, 2008 (press release). This legislation gives VOIP service providers the same access to 911 systems as wireless phone providers, and it ensures that consumers with internet phone service will be able to call 911 in an emergency. The bill also seeks to improve 911 services for the deaf and disabled and encourage the development of a more robust national IP-enabled 911 network.
>> Recent Telecommunications Press:
- » 07.08.2009
Rural Broadband Internet Access, Essential
