$42 billion in public funding for internet infrastructure buildout is hitting our streets this year, and CWA members have worked hard to make sure it will create good, union jobs. Because of that work, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration has prioritized investment in fiber.

But now the future of that funding is in jeopardy. Satellite company CEOs are pushing to funnel more of the money intended for fiber buildout to unreliable satellite internet service. Satellite employs fewer workers–and there are currently no union-represented satellite internet providers.

Satellite internet service is a terrible use of public funds. It does not provide the reliable speeds that communities will need. Satellite connection speeds go down with an increase in users. Satellites also have higher recurring costs. The companies themselves say satellites only have a five-year life span, after which they require another big investment.

Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz has called for broader use of “alternative technologies” to fiber, and senior Trump Administration officials have testified against “preferring fiber builds.” The outcome of this debate will have huge impacts on the success of this buildout and the creation of good union jobs.

Tell the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to stand up to pressure to redirect funds to unreliable satellite internet service and continue to create good, union jobs by investing in reliable, high-speed fiber internet.