12.21.10

Cantwell Says New FCC Net Neutrality Rules Not Strong Enough

Announces she will introduce net neutrality legislation in 2011 to keep the Internet open and free

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted 3-2 to issue the final report and order on its open Internet proceeding, which includes rules on net neutrality.  
 
“While the open Internet order the Commissioners voted on today represents an improvement over the initial draft, I am disappointed and concerned that the rules don’t do enough to make sure the Internet remains a source of American innovation and economic growth,” said Senator Cantwell. “I will introduce net neutrality legislation next Congress to ensure the Internet remains open and free.”
 
For more information on Senator Cantwell’s recent efforts to urge a bold net neutrality plan, see her December 1st statement on the FCC’s initial draft of the rules. Also see Cantwell’s December 10th letter she sent to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski urging the Commission to consider a number of specific changes to strengthen the final rules, and Cantwell’s letters to the Chairman from June 17, 2010 and October 21, 2009. Senator Cantwell is a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation which has jurisdiction over the FCC and telecommunication issues.
 
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