FCC Reports Millions Lack Broadband Access

InformationWeek: The FCC has completed a new report on the country's access to broadband, which finds that 14 to 24 million Americans lack high-speed Internet connections. Hoping to use the findings to bolster support for his National Broadband Plan, FCC chairman Julius Genachowski said: "As numerous studies show, America is behind where it needs to be on broadband to maintain its global competitiveness and drive economic growth."

The report's findings were challenged by industry leaders and Republicans, including FCC member Robert M. McDowell who said: "I question whether this Report will be used to justify additional regulation, contrary to the Act's (the 1996 Telecom Act) goal of 'removing barriers to infrastructure investment.'"