Saturday, August 1, 2009

OSA Action Alert: Call for Broadband Reviewers

Dear OSA Optics Legislative Network/optical communications industry professional:

The United States Department of Commerce is seeking technical experts to review grant proposals for broadband funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (also known as the stimulus bill). Earlier this year, President Obama and Congress passed the stimulus bill that included $7.2 billion to expand broadband access to unserved and underserved communities across the U.S., increase jobs, spur investments in technology and infrastructure, and provide long-term economic benefits.

On July 1, Vice President Biden announced the first round of broadband funding: $4 billion through the Department of Commerce. Applications will be accepted until August 14 with grant announcements being made by mid September. At least one other round of funding will be made available by September 2010.

The Commerce Department is expecting a large number of applications and is seeking volunteer experts to rate the various projects. The Department is looking for a minimum time commitment of approximately 20 hours between mid August and mid September. If you are interested in serving as a reviewer, please visit BroadbandUSA.gov and read the section titled "Call for Reviewers." Additional information about the broadband stimulus program can also be found at this site.

Please do not hesitate to contact the OSA Public Policy team if you'd like any additional information.

Sincerely,
OSA Public Policy Team
public-policy@osa.org

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