Earlier today, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted 3-2 in favor of a Net Neutrality plan which will provide assurances that Americans will continue to have an open Internet. Although the plan was not perfect, I believe it gives the business community a reason to invest in our country's future. It seems appropriate that this compromise comes during the holiday season and just ahead of the New Year. It's been a hard road as Congress, FCC Commissioners and other stakeholders have pushed hard to include their own agenda within the Internet policy framework. And while there have been numerous points of contention this vote marks a fresh start for 2011.
There are a number of benefits that will result from passage of this plan. Providing market certainty gives a much clearer understanding about where regulators stand which provides more direction for companies to strategize on how to best use and invest their resources. This means money will begin flowing to business expansions and new projects. This money will be used to build out a high-speed Internet infrastructure. These investments will create new employment opportunities for small businesses contracted by major telecommunications and high-tech firms and enable small companies that provide materials, supplies and manpower with opportunities for new business. These include companies that provide the materials for cell phone tower installation, high-speed Internet cables and network technologies to monitor and manage intricate supply chains.
All of this couldn't come at a better time as Americans are desperate for some good news, especially in the form of new jobs and new investments in their communities. This is a positive step in the right direction, especially for low-income and minority communities who need access to affordable broadband. Affordable access to mobile devices and broadband technology allow for more Americans despite their income or ethnicity to connect online. This provides a new platform to learn, apply for jobs, invest and manage one's health care. In our modern society and with a more global economy having access to information and cutting-edge technologies is necessary for undeserved communities to thrive.
As the new Congress begins its work in January, perhaps today's vote will serve as a symbol that policymakers, advocacy groups and business interests can still come together and find common ground. As we all know Washington is far from perfect, yet inch by inch we can make progress and trying to guarantee all American's can tap into the resources and opportunities available on the Internet. For many families across the country struggling to pay bills or find a job, it's going to be an especially difficult holiday season. However the FCC's plan should give us all a little comfort knowing that next year should prove more promising than the last.
Julius H. Hollis is the CEO of the Alliance for Digital Equality, a non-profit organization that receives funding from a wide array of organizations including those from the telecommunications, energy and entertainment sectors.
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