In the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), Congress required the FCC to prepare a national broadband plan, to be delivered not later than February 17, 2010. The primary objective of the plan was "to ensure that all people of the United States have access to broadband capability. . . ." The plan was to include "an analysis of the most effective and efficient mechanisms for ensuring broadband access . . ." and "a plan for use of broadband infrastructure and services in advancing consumer welfare. . . ."