FCC Commissioners Head to Capitol Hill to Give Testimony on Open Internet Rules

On Wednesday, February 16, all five FCC Commissioners spoke in front of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology to answer questions about the recently-passed open Internet regulations.

FCC Chairman, Julius Genachowski stated that he believes the FCC did the correct thing when pushing for free and open Internet for all Americans:

"I believe we did the right thing [on net neutrality]... I'm also pleased that market analysis overwhelmingly found our action to be a light touch approach that increases certainty throughout the broadband ecosystem, and that recognizes the need to earn returns on investments."

FCC Commissioner Michael Copps believes the protections adopted in December will preserve the openness and innovation that has made the Internet what it is today:

"With the adoption of the Open Internet Order last December, we have at least some concrete rules to prevent gatekeepers from circumventing the openness that made the Internet the Internet and from stifling innovation, investment and job creation."

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn pointed out that the current market is far from perfect, and with 78% of the United States relying on Internet access every day, the FCC has a duty to protect consumers:

"The fact is that there have been several formal complaints filed and informal complaints and allegations lodged at the Commission about Internet Service Provider ('ISP') behavior. This is so despite the fact that in general, ISPs claim that they believe in an open Internet and the Commission's 2005 Policy Statement."

The FCC's rules ensure that every American has access to the legal content of his or her choosing, while establishing reasonable guidelines that will encourage future investment in the network.

Written Statement of Julius Genachowski Chairman Federal Communications Commission

Testimony of FCC Commissioner Michael J. Copps

Testimony of FCC Commissioner Mignon L. Clyburn