An article in Wall Street Journal, “Internet Providers Move to Shape Broadband Push”, describes what provisions telcos and cable companies are seeking as bill-drafters develop the broadband portion of the U.S. economic stimulus package.

The Congressional bailout of the financial industry has created anger and resentment in the general public, who is justifiably shaken by the economic crisis. Public opinion is having an impact on the development of the economic stimulus package. According to a Dow Jones release, some lawmakers have concerns about including provisions to promote broadband deployment that could be perceived as ‘corporate welfare’ for telecommunications companies. These perceptions could lead lawmakers away from developing sound technology policy and would jeopardize the effectiveness of any economic stimulus effort.

Broadband is one of the most powerful tools we can use to re-energize our economy. The U.S. will not regain its place as a world economic leader without making use of this essential resource. Broadband access can help close long-standing gaps between our society’s ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’.

The government won’t be able to reach every American home with broadband without investing in infrastructure and creating incentives for deployment. It would be a shame if misperceptions about government funded investments and incentives to promote universal access to broadband service would steer lawmakers away from making these sound policy decisions.

Let’s not forget that this is a stimulus package. Federal investment in broadband deployment will support short- and long-term economic growth. Broadband projects would create much-needed jobs for the next 2-3 years. According to the Communications Workers of America, 100,000 jobs would be created for every $5 billion spent on broadband infrastructure development.

The solutions under consideration won’t just create jobs. With broadband accessible to more households, currently marginalized segments of our society will benefit from access to better information, more efficient commercial transactions, innumerable educational resources, and the opportunity to create stronger connections with others.

In order to ensure maximum growth in all sectors of our economy and advance the quality of life, it is essential that we invest in comprehensive broadband infrastructure development.