News -- June 19. 2020

INCOMPAS: Wicker, Walden Digital Divide Framework Boosts Broadband Recovery, Connectivity and Jobs

WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 19, 2020) – Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS) and Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR) have introduced a framework for broadband legislation aimed at expanding access and digital opportunity to help close the digital divide.

The principles for their “broadband connectivity and digital access framework” include key features such as funding for better broadband mapping, streamlined deployment processes and support for broadband builders who have been economically hurt by COVID-19, but remained committed to keeping their customers connected, even if they could not pay for services.

In response to the Wicker/Walden framework, Chip Pickering, CEO of INCOMPAS, released the following statement of support:

“America needs broadband leaders, and we are lucky to have Sen. Roger Wicker and Rep. Greg Walden stepping up in the fight to close the digital divide. Their legislative plan to fix broken maps, deploy more fiber and help small broadband providers who have delivered essential services through hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic will help put America on a better path to the future.

“Wicker and Walden’s framework seeks to remove barriers to building faster wired and wireless networks of the future, while expanding E-Rate by providing greater flexibility to meet the Covid-19 crisis. We look forward to working with them, and bipartisan members of Congress, to enact laws that help create jobs and bring more broadband connectivity to people and places across our great country.”

About INCOMPAS
INCOMPAS, the internet and competitive networks association, is the leading trade group advocating for competition policy across all networks. INCOMPAS represents Internet, streaming, communications and technology companies large and small, advocating for laws and policies that promote competition, innovation and economic development. Learn more at www.incompas.org or follow us on Twitter: @INCOMPAS @ChipPickering