The Communications Workers of America (CWA) said today that it is critical for U.S. policy makers to combine the important goals of Internet openness with the need to encourage investment in building a 21st century broadband system.

The CWA says it supports the plan announced by Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski to develop rules to protect an open Internet. It looks to the FCC to set rules in polices that will encourage investment, reasonable network management, maintain transparency, promote media diversity and lead to the growth of good jobs in the telecommunications industry.

Julius Genachowski
FCC Chairman

In the past, the U.S. has missed a number of opportunities to set an effective, national policy that would promote the deployment of broadband networks. The CWA maintains that such a policy is critical to economic growth and boosting the economy.

Currently the U.S. ranks 15th in broadband penetration globally and 26th in broadband speeds.

"The Internet is an extraordinary platform for innovation, job creation, investment, and opportunity. It has unleashed the potential of entrepreneurs and enabled the launch and growth of small businesses across America," said Chairman Genachowski. 

"It is vital that we safeguard the free and open Internet."