Thursday, Mar 10 2011 10:25PM

Assistance from the FCC will help more American Indian households have broadband Internet access.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) unanimously approved plans to establish more broadband and communications services in American Indian communities, as part of the agency's national broadband plan.

The FCC heard testimony from Native American leaders who appealed for help in developing modern communication networks in the rural areas that usually house reservations or tribal communities. In a prepared statement, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said many people cannot access emergency 911 services on remote tribal lands due to a lack of communication services, potentially leading to an unnecessary loss of life.

To encourage connectivity, the FCC approved a measure that would investigate issues related to improving communications services, which includes defining tribal lands and frequently consulting with Native nations. Moreover, the plan would expand broadband Internet service and increase Native American broadcast radio services.

Improved communication services will also encourage rural community development in tribal lands by expanding economic opportunities and health services, Genachowski said.

Native American households are considerably less likely to have high-speed Internet access. According to data from the U.S. Census, less than half of those households have broadband, compared to 68 percent of white homes.