Are you online now that we are at the end of 2009?

You may be aware that the Federal Communications Commission has been busy crafting America’s first national broadband plan, ensuring that all our citizens can access broadband Internet at affordable rates.

Just last Wednesday, preliminary recommendations were outlined by the FCC in a report on its national broadband plan, due in February 2010. More details can be found in this Associated Press article.

No matter what the plan says, we know that an open and accessible Internet will be essential to America’s future growth. It is fair to say that broadband access for everyone could help revitalize our economy, improve education, engage millions more people in our democracy and give new meaning to freedom of speech.

If you want…and agree with the following, there’s an opportunity to give your input. Tell the FCC you support an open, fast, affordable and people-powered Internet without the corporate red tape, high prices, slow performance, and lack of choice. Net Neutrality should be a basic and enforceable rule of the Internet. The plan should also ensure that every American — regardless of their race, income or location — can connect to broadband at prices everyone can afford. Follow this link to send your message directly to the FCC.

An organization called Internet for Everyone is leading the way in communicating this message. Just this year, they took a tour across the U.S., visiting cities large and small to assess the real current situation of accessibility to broadband Internet.

At Ooma, we are watching the national broadband plan very closely. With our charter to provide free U.S. calls and the elimination of recurring monthly home phone bills and no contracts, the extended access to broadband for all Americans is paramount to our continued expansion. We believe in the messages coming from organizations like Internet for Everyone, whose pillars include access, choice, openness, and innovation. We are excited for the New Year and seeing how this plan of action unfolds. Until then, let’s stay tuned.