Telecommunications-Broadband

The past century saw great changes in technology, bringing with it new or improved means of communications. These technological changes create an ever-shrinking world, but one with new challenges. Numerous times, Congress has updated telecommunications laws as new trends emerge. The most recent reorganization of telecommunications regulations came with the 1996 Telecommunications Act. The intention of the act was deregulation and increased competition. Since 1996, we have experienced additional changes and challenges in the telecommunications industry. Congress recognizes these changes and has begun debating how to best alter current law to further promote competition, spur investment in infrastructure and stimulate technological advances.
 
One major aspect of this debate will be how to better deploy broadband Internet services to rural areas. Broadband Internet is increasing speeds and capacity with which consumers and businesses alike access the Internet. Unfortunately, rural America lags behind the rest of the nation when it comes to high-speed Internet connections at home and in the office. This gap has begun to shrink, but we need to create a policy so that rural areas are not left in the virtual dark.

Broadband access plays an essential role in how rural communities deliver health, safety, and educational services, and connect even the smallest community with the rest of the world.  The broadband policy that we develop will ensure not only that broadband is extended to rural Americans, but that it is done efficiently, effectively, and will remain affordable. Broadband deployment to rural areas will ensure that Kansas, and the nation, will stay at the forefront of technological innovation and development.

I look forward to working with Congressional leaders in developing new communication laws, and I remain committed to ensuring that rural areas are not overlooked in this debate.