Lawmakers in both parties object to what they...
Lawmakers in both parties object to what they are hearing about the FCC’s proposal for net neutrality rules that would allow for so-called Internet fast lanes, following initial outrage Thursday (CD April 25 p7). Democrats, who typically back net neutrality…
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rules, have torn into the proposal as too weak and possibly endangering the open Internet. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., slammed the proposed rules, saying they “raise serious concerns that the Internet might soon lose the core of what it is -- an open space for innovation, entrepreneurship, connection and communication.” Pelosi urged people to contact the FCC to demand strong net neutrality rules. “We must not allow broadband providers to relegate competing ideas, products, and services to slow, congested speeds,” Pelosi said. House Commerce Committee ranking member Henry Waxman, D-Calif., talked with FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler Thursday “and he assured me that he is committed to ensuring an open internet and banning any arrangements that hinder innovation and competition or impinge on consumer choice,” said Waxman, often a strong net neutrality proponent, in a statement. “These are the right goals, and I want to work with him to make sure they are achieved in the final rule.” Rep. Mike Doyle, D-Pa., pointed to “serious concerns” he has about the FCC proposals and said the FCC has a responsibility “to adopt strong regulations to protect the open Internet.” Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., tweeted on the issue: “Monopolist interests cannot be allowed to pick winners & losers on what must be a level playing field.” Republicans have typically objected to any reinstated net neutrality rules and slammed this proposal accordingly. House Commerce Committee Vice Chairman Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., sent a letter to the FCC Thursday (http://1.usa.gov/1ilcyaA). “Before the Administration takes any reckless steps that could jeopardize the explosive growth and innovation of the Internet, it is important the FCC is able to explain the potential costs and its impact on jobs to the American people,” Blackburn said. “That is why I am calling on Chairman Wheeler to follow Executive Order 13563 initiated by President Obama and conduct a cost benefit analysis before any rule goes into effect."