Did anyone else notice that tech policy played a prominent role in last night’s State of the Union Address? While the overall theme was investment and innovation many policy proposals long advocated by the tech policy crowd made their way into last night’s speech. Access to high-speed broadband—mobile in particular, was the issue that pricked up my ears as being most relevant for the real estate industry.
Beyond the substance of the speech, technology and more specifically, social media was all over the presentation and delivery. Viewers watching on C-SPAN 2 could see tweets from members of Congress scroll by as the President delivered his address. Those viewing the speech online on the White House website were treated to a PowerPoint presentation along with the speech. And of course all of you on twitter following #sotu were guests at a digital party complete with Lani’s sartorial review of last night’s events. For the techie crowd it’s a new dawn, a new day and I couldn’t be more thrilled.
But…now back to the policy. Last night President Obama called on policymakers to expand wireless access to 98 percent of Americans within the next five years. It is a stretch goal to be sure, but one that is well worth undertaking. As the President said “This isn’t just about a faster Internet and fewer dropped calls. It’s about a firefighter who can download the design of burning building onto a handheld device; a student who can take classes with a digital textbook; or a patient who can have face-to-face video chats with her doctor.” To add the real estate context, it’s about REALTORs giving consumer what they want, fast anytime access and the ability to transact at anytime from anywhere.
Congress is also getting in on the wireless broadband act. Yesterday, Senator Jay Rockefeller, Chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee introduced a bill that would among other things, free up more airwaves for wireless communications.
It remains to be seen what will actually pan out but, I for one am encouraged by the increased focus on technology and innovation. What did you think of the President’s address? Did you follow online or with social media? I’m curious to hear about your experience.
Photo Credit: Medill DC on Flickr via CC license
