Chairman Genachowski Defends FCC Open Internet Framework

In testimony on Capitol Hill, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski explained the importance of the FCC's Open Internet rules with four main points:

1. Transparency, so that consumers and innovators can have basic information to make smart choices about broadband networks and how to develop and launch the next killer apps. Empowering them with information will reduce the need for government involvement.
2. No blocking of lawful Internet content or services, so that consumers can access lawful content and services, and so startup and other Internet companies can reach Internet consumers. The FCC framework makes clear that it does not protect unlawful content that violates, for example, intellectual property or child pornography laws.
3. A fair non-discrimination principle, so that consumers and markets are not picking winners and losers online.
4. Flexibility for Internet service providers to manage broadband networks, recognizing legitimate differences between wired and wireless technologies; to deal with congestion or harmful traffic; to pursue innovation in business models; and to earn a meaningful return on investment.

Earlier this year, Republican members of the House of Representatives made an unprecedented attempt to repeal the Open Internet regulation, and now the Senate may consider such action.

The Communications Workers of America supports maintaining the Open Internet principles, so that the FCC can refocus its attention on more pressing issues like expanding broadband access and adoption as defined in the National Broadband Plan.

Statement of Chairman Julius Genachowski Federal Communications Commission Hearing on 'Ensuring Competition on the Internet: Network Neutrality and Antitrust Law'