February 26, 2002 -- Claiming "more choices, lower prices and more access for high-speed internet service," an organization called Connect Michigan stated its support for H.R. 1542.

According to the organization, access to high-speed Internet connections is crucial to consumers and communities in today's economy. High- speed Internet access can provide a lifeline to small businesses, schools and hospitals and help communities prosper and grow in the Information Age.

Connect Michigan supports H.R. 1542 sponsored by U.S. Representatives John Dingell (D-Michigan) and Billy Tauzin (R-Louisiana). The organization says that the legislation will ensure that all companies providing high-speed Internet access face the same rules and regulations. By requiring phone companies to offer high-speed services through 100% of their local offices, it will guarantee that small towns and inner cities are not left behind.

"Without real competition, many consumers won't have any choice for high-speed Internet access except their cable company," said Connect Michigan Executive Director David Palsrok. "In order to promote real competition among providers of high-speed service, Congress should pass H.R. 1542."

According to Connect Michigan, local phone companies that want to provide DSL to their customers face nearly two dozen separate regulations that none of their competitors face. And this uneven regulation has allowed America's cable monopolies to capture more than 70 percent of the high-speed Internet market.

"Passing the Tauzin-Dingell bill will bring lower prices, increased innovation, more choices and won't cost taxpayers anything," said Palsrok. "This important legislation is scheduled for debate on Wednesday, February 27 in the House of Representatives."

According to the organization, the Tauzin-Dingell bill is supported by dozens of organizations including the AFL-CIO, Communications Workers of America and the United States Telecom Association.

Connect Michigan is a coalition that says it is working to promote competition for high-speed Internet service.

-End-