Obama pitching greater access to fast Internet, says lagging speeds are drag on economy

President Barack Obama is promoting his goal of greater broadband access during a trip to an Iowa community that has taken steps to provide high-speed Internet to all its residents.

Obama wants to expand access to broadband communications services, siding with local communities that want either to expand competition or provide municipal services themselves. He is announcing that his administration will provide technical and financial assistance to towns and cities that want to improve Internet service for their residents.

The modest proposals do not require congressional approval and are part of a series of measures Obama is rolling out before his State of the Union address next week.

Obama will detail his broadband plans Wednesday in Cedar Falls, Iowa.