WIPP Issues Letter to FCC Chairman and Commission Regarding the National Broadband Plan Notice of Inquiry
6:40 PM October 16, 2009
On October 14th, WIPP filed comments with the FCC in a letter to Chairman Genachowski on the issue of net neutrality. We feel that net neutrality regulations would ultimately hinder investment, access and the adoption of broadband, jeopardizing the businesses of our members, result in increased prices and decreased flexibility. Small businesses depend on access to the latest technology and innovation at an affordable price. In our view, innovation in technology, and competition between providers should drive changes in this sector, rather than government proposed regulations.
The Commission must explore the impact its actions will have on women and minority businesses. Broadband is a vital tool for economic success, creating more jobs and making businesses more efficient and competitive. More directly, some of the businesses we represent are part of the broadband and information technology industries, which in 2008 created more than half of all new jobs in America. A recent economic impact study commissioned by the Center for Women's Business Research cited that women business owners employ 23 million people in America, 16% of the US workforce. Therefore, not only should the Commission review impacts on specific groups, but it should look at the overall economic impact.
As the Commission moves forward through the October 22nd open meeting and on to the completion of the National Broadband Plan, WIPP would like to see data documenting the extent to which women and minority businesses are affected by whatever regulations are produced.
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