Privatizing the Public Trust: A Critical Look at Connected Nation

[Source: Benton Foundation - March 28, 2009]

The $350 million broadband mapping program approved in the recent economic stimulus bill would be set back if there is widespread participation in it by a group called Connected Nation, according to a new report issued by leading media policy advocates.

Connected Nation conducts mapping and broadband demand surveys around the country through subsidiary organizations.

The report argues that Connected Nation's policy restricts the collection and use of information gathered from the telecom companies and other incumbents that make up its Board of Directors. The authors also argue the case that Connected Nation has overstated its achievements.

According to the report, "It would be a setback for our broadband policy if Connected Nation were to take a prominent role in broadband mapping and data collection if it continues on its present policy course because the organization does not represent wise public policy and because it distorts its results."

Read the full report at PublicKnowledge.org, or click on the .PDF file attached below.

"Privatizing the Public Trust" was jointly issued by the Media and Democracy Coalition, Public Knowledge, Reclaim the Media and Common Cause.