ESA lobbies for broadband

Into 2009, one of the primary focuses of the industry trade body will be a proliferation of affordable high-speed Internet services, reports Congress Daily. Speaking with the politically minded news outlet, ESA president Michael Gallagher said that he views broadband Internet as the "connective tissue" that will hold together the gaming industry during the current global economic crisis.

"The administration and Congress have a huge amount to contribute to make sure that resources are available and make sure that rules of the road encourage investment and give companies and customers access to it at reasonable prices and terms," Gallagher told Congress Daily.

The ESA is likely to find receptive ears in the White House. President Obama has been adamant in his support of enhanced and expanded broadband networks, even before taking office in January. As noted on the president's campaign Web site, "As a country, we have ensured that every American has access to telephone service and electricity, regardless of economic status, and Obama will do likewise for broadband Internet access."

Gallagher also lauded the $6 billion investment packed in with President Obama's $787 billion economic stimulus bill passed earlier this month, calling it a good start. "We're the only form of entertainment online that's interactive--movies and music are linear," Gallagher said. "We're very pleased with the president's strong embracing of broadband deployment as a high value goal for our country."