State needs faster Internet

To the editor:

Missouri communities increasingly want and need high-speed Internet access to keep and attract business and provide for jobs, better education and increased health care. Consumers also need choice and innovation in the kind of broadband services they receive.

Unfortunately, not all towns in Missouri have this critical economic development tool, and that needs to change. High-speed capabilities, for example, can allow a small distributor in Missouri to compete against a larger company out of state, students to conduct distance learning and allow health providers to send and download large patient files quickly. It is also useful for those who just want to browse the Internet at speeds much greater than traditional dial-up services.

High-speed Internet service needs to be expanded throughout Missouri. Increased investment in telecommunication services such as high-speed Internet will help to ensure a growing economy and a competitive market for Missouri consumers.

Let's support legislation that will increase the investment in Missouri's economy.

WILLIAM KOPPENAAL

Jackson