Cornyn Warns Against New FCC Actions

Statement

Senator: Interference with Broadband Access Services Threaten Innovation & Economic Recovery

U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today warned that the recent action by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to interfere with broadband access services could lead to further delays in America's innovation and economic recovery.

"I am disappointed by the FCC's latest move which imposes new government regulations on one of our economy's newest and most innovative sectors. Clearly, the Obama Administration did not hear the clarion call from Americans in November that stated that they did not want more government regulations and restrictions, like those imposed through the new health care law. Instead of trying to encourage our economic recovery, this Administration has become a shackle to innovation and growth in America. The FCC's proposal will only delay private investments in new innovations that are so critical to creating jobs."

Senator Cornyn's condemnation of the FCC's latest proposal follows several efforts by the Senator to stop the new regulations. Last week, Senator Cornyn cosponsored an amendment by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX), the Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce Science, and Transportation Committee, which would prevent the FCC from regulating the internet. Unfortunately, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid blocked the amendment from a Senate vote.

In addition to the amendment, Senator Cornyn also joined a letter led by Senator Hutchison which was sent directly to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski. The letter, signed by a group of 28 Republican senators, expressed opposition to any so-called Open Internet rules and urged the Chairman to abandon any effort to impose new restrictions on this segment of our economy.

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