AFBF: Broadband Internet Critical for Rural America

The American Farm Bureau Federation sent comments last week to the Federal Communications Commission on the development of a national broadband plan. The AFBF says people who live and work in rural America are often unable to access the same educational, medical, business and government services as Americans living in more populated areas, and access to modern broadband Internet service has the potential to correct this inequity. AFBF stressed the need for affordable broadband access for farmers, many who run their businesses from their homes. Affordable home broadband access is important for keeping American agriculture competitive in the world marketplace, according to AFBF. AFBF urged the FCC to consider location when determining broadband availability and to consider price or marketplace competition in determining access to broadband services. AFBF also said broadband should be designated as a "supported service" eligible to receive support directly from the Universal Services Fund. AFBF said broadband deployment should be increased through any technology, including wireless.