Broadband plan for high speed internet sent to Congress

A plan to help the US lead the world in providing its citizens with super-fast internet has been officially released.

The Federal Communications Commission, FCC, aims to ensure every American in the country has broadband connections by 2020.

It claims a third of all US households - 100 million Americans - do not have a broadband connection.

Congress will now consider whether to introduce legislation to enact some parts of the 360-page plan.

Some of the 200 recommendations will be decided on by other government agencies such at the Federal Trades Commission and Homeland Security department.

The FCC's five commissioners did not vote to approve the document because not all agree on its recommendations.

Instead they gave their backing to a statement of support for some of the plan's goals. These include ensuring every American has access to affordable high-speed internet and shifting airwaves to mobile services.

"We finally have a clear objective and a considered strategy aimed at ensuring that everyone in this country has equal opportunities in this new Digital Age, no matter who they are, where they live, or the particular circumstances of their individual lives," said Michael Copps, a Democratic FCC commissioner.

'Critical question'

The broadband plan comes at a time when the internet is playing an increasing role in the lives of individuals, businesses and government.

The FCC has called this the "greatest infrastructure challenge of the 21st century" and said it represents a "foundation for economic growth, job creation, global competitiveness and a better way of life".