Contact: media@nextgenweb.org / 202-326-7370

Space Discusses Broadband Initiatives in 2007 Farm Bill

WASHINGTON DC – NextGenWeb.org today posted an exclusive video-cast interview with Representative Zack Space (D-OH) who recently introduced legislation to help spur broadband deployment and investment in rural communities. In the interview, Space outlines the urgent need for the broadband loan amendment he offered to the 2007 Farm Bill to help increase broadband access in his district and other rural areas. Space’s amendment would cut paper work, reform loan security requirements and provide better oversight for the Rural Utility Service broadband loan program. The Farm Bill and the Space amendment were passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in July.

When asked how broadband access can change how manufacturers conduct business in his district, Representative Space explained “broadband is not a passing fad. If you’re a company looking to locate a facility somewhere one of the first things you look to is the access and the quality of broadband in the area. Clearly, there are significant economic benefits to the people of rural America to have broadband access. But it’s more than an economic issue; it’s a quality of life issue. Because of the benefits associated with telemedicine, it’s a healthcare issue. Because of the benefits of distance learning, it’s an educational issue. It’s a security issue with respect to coordinating first responders in a given area.�

Congressman Space was elected to the US House of Representatives in 2006 and represents Ohio’s 18th Congressional District.

To view the complete interview, please visit www.nextgenweb.org.

NextGenWeb.org is a blog sponsored by USTelecom.

 Loading ...