ITI 2010 Policy Priorities

In 2010, innovation in information and communications technologies (ICT) will help the ICT industry and the U.S. enter the new decade in a position of strength.  The 2010 policy priorities for ITI, outlined below, are focused on expanding domestic job growth, ensuring global competitiveness, and improving the quality of life: 

Spurring Sustainable Job Growth

A jobs agenda that is built on driving innovation domestically and exporting abroad, results in new capital inflow and jobs in the United States. 

• Spearheading educational initiatives focused on improving education in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) disciplines:  Cultivate, retain and prepare America’s best and brightest for the 21^st Century workforce by bolstering STEM education in local school districts, universities, and community colleges.

• Building momentum for competitive corporate tax reform:  Lay the foundation for a comprehensive overhaul of the corporate tax code to promote U.S. investment and drive economic growth to create and protect American jobs.

• Advancing broadband policies:  Drive increased broadband deployment and adoption, while providing incentives to invest in next-generation technologies.

• Expanding U.S. investment in research and development:  The federal R & D tax credit would help create hundreds of thousands of jobs in the near term and enhance the nation’s long-term economic competitiveness.

Increasing Access to Global Markets

Global competiveness for ICT goods and services is vital to our country’s economic growth and increasing job opportunities.

• Knocking down barriers to trade:  Eliminate tariffs and the growing proliferation of behind-the-border impediments to trade in China and other key markets, especially targeting discriminatory technical regulations and standards.

• Supporting initiatives to jumpstart the U.S. trade agenda:  Back the U.S. initiative to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership, develop strong trade initiatives for the U.S. hosting of APEC in 2011, support passage of the pending FTAs, and conclude  a strong Doha Round.

• Leading on product sustainability and lifecycle issues:  Drive reasonable and consistent policies on product materials content, end of life management and energy use to help secure market access around the world.

• Drive a global approach for cybersecurity:  Encourage global cybersecurity practices rather than country-specific programs that limit market access.

• Rewarding environmental achievements:  Secure market advantage for achievements in sustainable design through green purchasing preferences based on accepted standards.

Improving the Quality of Our Lives

Domestic ICT innovation has reshaped our lives in significant ways and promises to be even more transformational in the future.

• Ensuring ICT availability for people with disabilities:  Increase international harmonization of procurement practices and technology standards for accessibility to maximize the availability of affordable ICT for all.    

• Greening through energy efficiency and renewables:  Promote ICT energy efficiency solutions and advanced renewable energy technologies as key parts of legislation on energy and climate and in policy development around the world.

• Protect American ideas and creativity:  Work to pass a patent reform bill that addresses both patent litigation and patent quality, supporting a bill that fosters U.S. job creation and innovation.