Tech trade group spent $455,835 to lobby in 1Q

[OhioChick]

Associated Press 06.09.08, 3:08 PM ET

WASHINGTON -
The Computer & Communications Industry Association spent $455,835 in the first quarter to lobby on proposals to spur the rollout of high-speed Internet connections and other issues, according to a recent disclosure report.

The trade group also lobbied on the federal auction of wireless spectrum, which can be used to deliver broadband connections, and on proposals to overhaul the Universal Service Fund that subsidizes telephone service in rural and low-income communities through a surcharge on long-distance bills.

The CCIA, whose members include Microsoft Corp., Google Inc., Yahoo Inc. and Sun Microsystems Inc., also lobbied on copyright and other intellectual property protections, proposals to reform the patent system, and H-1B visas for skilled workers, according to a disclosure form filed with House clerk's office April 21.

In addition, the group lobbied on proposals to grant retroactive immunity to telecom providers that participated in the Bush administration's domestic wiretapping program following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Besides Congress, the CCIA lobbied the Federal Communications Commission, Federal Trade Commission, U.S. Trade Representative and other agencies during the first three months of the year.

http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2008/06/09/ap5096909.html

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