Topeka ? State Rep. Tom Sloan, R-Lawrence, has been appointed by Federal Communications Chairman Julius Genachowski to an advisory panel.

The Intergovernmental Advisory Committee provides advice and information to the FCC on a broad range of telecommunications issues.

“This appointment will help me promote making high-speed Internet service available to every Kansan so that the benefits of telemedicine, e-government, distance education and access to the world can be enjoyed by all,” said Sloan. “It is significant that a state legislator from a largely rural state has an opportunity to influence federal telecommunications policies,” he said.

Sloan said no federal or state government funds will be used to reimburse him for his travel to IAC meetings in Washington, D.C.