More broadband could speed Florida's recovery

[Commentary] Few people realize exactly what a faster, more accessible Internet could mean for Florida's economy -- a wealth of job creation, better learning opportunities, quicker emergency response, business growth and an overall improved quality of life. Although in 2007 half of all Floridians had no access to high-speed Internet, the outlook has gotten much brighter, thanks to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and its $7.2 billion for the Broadband Initiatives Program and Broadband Technology Opportunities Program. Through technology installation and the better opportunities broadband creates, universal high-speed Internet will grow small business, create jobs and stimulate the economy -- the key tools for Florida's recovery and growth.

[Liz Cox is a research assistant for Florida Public Interest Research Group.]