I am currently attending hearings in Alaska on how to expand access to broadband services. But we must never forget that many Americans still lack basic telephone service. This problem is particularly acute for Indians, including Alaska Natives, especially those living on tribal lands or in remote areas.

The President has announced today a bold and creative proposal to increase federal support for Indian participants in the Lifeline program. I believe this proposal holds a great deal of promise, and I look forward to working with my FCC colleagues and the members of the Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service to consider this proposal carefully and expeditiously along with any other ways in which we can increase telephone subscribership. When more of us are connected, all of us benefit.