Martin wants broadband across USA

0 Comments | USA TODAY, August, 2008 | by Leslie Cauley

WASHINGTON -- High-speed Internet access is so important to the welfare of U.S. consumers that America can't afford not to offer it -- free of charge -- to anybody who wants it, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin Martin says.

"There's a social obligation in making sure everybody can participate in the next generation of broadband services because, increasingly, that's what people want," he says.

Martin hopes to use a chunk of wireless airwaves due to hit the auction block next year to help turn his vision into reality. Some cellphone operators are objecting.

As FCC chairman, Martin is responsible for protecting the interests of U.S. consumers. The FCC has regulatory sway over a broad swath of U.S. business, including cable and...