Representatives from Reservation Telephone Cooperative (RTC) recently met with several Congressional representatives to discuss the ways that small communications providers like RTC ensure consumers in their service area enjoy access to affordable broadband services.

Among the issues discussed were the National Broadband Plan-policy-makers' blueprint for creating universal access to broadband which the Federal Communications Commission delivered to Congress March 16. They also discussed the broadband funding programs created by last year's economic stimulus bill. RTC representatives pointed out many examples of how our broadband services have enhanced the lives of many area residents.

RTC representatives urged their congressional delegates to help ensure sustained support for broadband networks well into the future by advocating policies that recognize the costs associated with building and maintaining broadband infrastructure in rural and remote areas, and reorient the federal Universal Service Fund (USF) for broadband deployment. USF supports RTC's efforts to deliver consumers advanced communications technologies at affordable rates.

RTC representatives were in Washington to participate in the National Telecommunications Cooperative Association's Legislative & Policy Conference, March 22-24. During the annual event nearly 600 rural telecom representatives from throughout the country gather in the nation's capitol for educational briefings about emerging rules and regulations and other industry issues. They also take part in visits to policy-makers on Capitol Hill and the FCC.