Importance of Broadband to Tourism

June 12, 2003

To the Members of the United States Congress:

Over the next several weeks, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will partner with leading trade associations in banking, health care, transportation, education and other sectors of our economy to highlight the benefits of a national broadband policy. Last week we highlighted the benefits of broadband to health care. This week the Chamber and the American Hotel & Lodging Association will demonstrate the importance of broadband to travel and tourism.

Broadband connectivity is increasingly becoming a necessity to the hospitality industry. More than 40% of business travelers – who account for 80% of extended-stay guests – say they want broadband Internet access in their hotel rooms. Broadband equipped hotel rooms are expected to grow to 15% in 2003. As broadband's importance to the travel and lodging industry grows, it is clear that we need a national policy that promotes private investment in broadband networks, services, and applications.

Private investment in high-speed networks will generate high-paying jobs, provide new growth in economically struggling communities, and increase the efficiency and productivity of the nation's businesses in all sectors. Congress should adopt policies that encourage widespread deployment of broadband networks and the development of new applications.

The Chamber and its coalition partners are committed to a nationwide education campaign to promote awareness of broadband capabilities. We urge Congress and the administration to join us in promoting a national broadband strategy that enables the United States to remain a technological and economic leader.

Sincerely,

R. Bruce Josten
Executive Vice President
U.S. Chamber of Commerce

John P. Connors
Executive Vice President for Public Policy
American Hotel & Lodging Association

Fact Sheet: Broadband and Tourism (PDF)