FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 9, 2007

CONTACT: Linda Paris, 202-365-3343

The Alliance for Public Technology Releases Advanced Universal Service Policy Report

Washington, D.C., February 9, 2007 – Today at the National Press Club, the Alliance for Public Technology (APT) released a new report entitled Achieving Universal Broadband: Policies for Stimulating Deployment and Demand. The report identifies the critical need for universal broadband, examines gaps in current policies and recommends a number of reforms that would promote the ubiquitous deployment of and access to high speed networks and services. 

"Inefficient programs, outdated legislation and piecemeal policies have resulted in a disturbing void in broadband access among some sectors of our society," said Kenneth R. Peres, Ph.D, President of APT. "Our nation cannot reap the benefits created by advances in telecommunications technology unless everyone has full access to broadband networks and services. Specific policy goals must be applied to reverse this trend," he added.

APT's report outlines a comprehensive series of recommendations that will promote deployment of and demand for high speed networks and services on a fast track. APT recommends that policymakers:

• Establish clear national goals for broadband deployment.
• Require accurate reporting of broadband deployment, speeds and prices.
• Continue to foster private investment and marketplace competition. 
• Require Universal Service Fund im to offer broadband services.
• Provide tax incentives, low interest loans, and grants for broadband deployment. 
• Create an Office of Broadband within the Federal Government.
• Utilize non-traditional, non-telecommunications programs more effectively.

APT believes this report will spark a re-evaluation of our nation's broadband programs and focus efforts on adoption of a comprehensive national policy promoting greater broadband deployment across our entire nation. 

DOWNLOAD THE REPORT

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About APT
The Alliance for Public Technology is a nonprofit membership organization based in Washington, D.C., which was founded in 1989 to foster public policies that ensure access to advanced telecommunications technologies for all Americans.