The Telecommunications Industry Association has applauded the Senate Finance Committee for its passage of S.1637, the Jumpstart Our Business Strength (JOBS) Act.

The TIA also commended committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) for including a provision for the expensing of investment in broadband equipment as part of the legislation.

TIA President Matthew Flanigan says the act is commendable for using fiscal incentives to address the current lack of investment in broadband networks.

"We believe such incentives serve as a way of bringing advanced technology to people outside of heavily populated areas," says Flanigan.

"These changes in the current tax structure are of vital interest to our member companies and should help to sustain the rebound the telecom sector is piecing together," Flanigan continues. "We are encouraged by the actions of the committee today, and TIA plans to work to ensure that this bill reaches the president's desk as quickly as possible."

The TIA is based in Arlington, VA. For more information visit www.tiaonline.org.