WASHINGTON -- Federal regulators have endorsed a plan to use vacant TV channels for high-speed Internet connections.

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Michael Powell says it would "dramatically increase" the availability and quality of wireless Internet connections -- especially for people in rural areas.

Powell says it would be like "doubling the number of lanes on a congested highway."

But TV broadcasters oppose the proposal. They argue that it would interfere with over-the-air television signals for millions of people.

The FCC commissioners voted unanimously to begin the lengthy rulemaking process for the plan.