Don Nickles: “I'm pleased to join Senator Breaux today to introduce a bill that will allow all providers of broadband services to…”

“I'm pleased to join Senator Breaux today to introduce a bill that will allow all providers of broadband services to compete under the same rules and regulations. This bill will bring certainty to the regulatory environment ensuring more Americans will have a choice in their broadband service provider. Access to broadband is crucial to consumers and communities in today's economy. High-speed connections to the Internet can provide a lifeline to small businesses, schools and hospitals, and can help communities prosper and grow in the Information Age. But unfortunately, different rules for competing high-speed Internet companies are stifling competition. Phone companies that offer the same service as wireless, satellite, and cable companies face different rules and regulations that raise costs and slow innovation. These rules make it more difficult and expensive for phone companies to provide broadband service, leaving millions of consumers without access to high-speed connections and millions more with only one choice. This service disparity is growing wider, and dozens of communities are at risk of being left behind, especially rural areas and inner-city neighborhoods. This bill will help close the Digital Divide and help ensure that all Americans have choices for high-speed Internet services.”