Wireless rules need streamlining

Streamlining government regulations is one of the most effective ways to increase private investment and stimulate job creation in Illinois. The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce was a strong supporter of updating Illinois' telecommunications policies, because access to high-speed Internet services is critical for every modern business. Investing in these networks enhances companies, grows our economy and creates jobs.

Recently, AT&T announced that from January until the end of June, the company alone has invested $700 million in their wireline and wireless networks, improving service and increasing broadband access throughout Illinois. Millions more network investments have been announced by other Illinois firms.

The Illinois Technology Partnership, which monitors broadband and wireless investments, reports that $300 million in public and private funds has been invested in the state since June, bearing the potential to create as many as 5,000 jobs.

With modern telecommunications laws, these investments will continue, and the benefits to business will follow. In an increasingly global economy and with some of the state's most innovative and successful businesses now web-based, high-speed Internet is necessary for our economy to remain competitive and attractive.

Illinois lawmakers at every level need to continue to adopt policies that encourage investment in wireline and wireless networks that support the growth of existing and emerging companies in Illinois.

Jerry Roper

President and CEO

Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce