2012-18

In Support of the National Wireless Initiative to Provide High-Speed Mobile Wireless to at Least 98 Percent of Americans, Including Latinos

SENATOR EDUARDO BHATIA (PR) INTRODUCED NATIONAL SUMMIT BROADBAND & TECHNOLOGY TASK FORCE

WHEREAS, access to broadband connection generates $27.8 billion in revenue over the next decade, raises from six to eight percent the graduation rates and ushers faster business growth; and

WHEREAS, Latinos are prone to adopt broadband connection using mobile Internet through Smartphones; and

WHEREAS, the adoption of mobile internet among Hispanics is of 53 percent compared to 33 percent of Whites’, being amid the demographics with higher adoption of this type of connection; and

WHEREAS, Smartphone penetration in the Hispanic community is of 45 percent, higher than the national average of 33 percent; and

WHEREAS, the number of Smartphones will soon pass both conventional mobile phones and computers, promising lower costs for such technology and a greater demand for bandwidth; and

WHEREAS, the release of 500 MHz of spectrum, through incentive auctions, for broadband connectivity will double spectrum available for mobile broadband, covering the demand for bandwidth; and

WHEREAS, an increase in spectrum availability also reduces costs of mobile technology and advances the deployment of 4G connections, thus providing faster connections, yielding higher adoption rates and boosting innovation; and

WHEREAS, the Initiative also catalyzes higher education rates and a secure nationwide mobile communications system; and

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators, to support the National Wireless Initiative, an initiative that ushers innovation, economic growth and education among the Hispanic community and all Americans.

THIS RESOLUTION WAS ADOPTED AND RATIFIED ON NOVEMBER 17, 2012 AT THE NHCSL ANNUAL MEETING HELD IN ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO.

Sponsored by: Senator Eduardo Bhatia (PR)