Disapproving FCC Internet and Broadband Regulations

Floor Speech

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Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, in support of consumer choice, innovation and economic growth, and a free and open Internet, I oppose the repeal of net neutrality rules.

In the wake of extraordinary movements for reform and human rights in the Middle East--organized online, on Facebook and Twitter--the United States must take heed of one of the fundamental facts of our time: that an open Internet is a critical building block of free, prosperous, democratic societies in the 21st century.

Out of this conviction, many of us have fought for net neutrality rules--because neither government nor telecommunications firms should be in charge of our free speech; because the Internet strengthens our democracy, stimulates investment, and bolsters our economy.

As a coalition of small businesses wrote in opposition to today's resolution: ``the open Internet increases opportunities for businesses large and small to compete and grow ..... An open Internet allows us to reach our customers at any place and at any time ..... An open Internet is an engine for economic growth, innovation, and job creation.'' To put it another way: an open Internet enhances consumer choice, supports entrepreneurship, and ensures competition in our economy.

Among those leading the charge are: Ranking Member HENRY WAXMAN, Energy and Commerce Committee; Congresswoman ANNA ESHOO, the top Democrat on the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology; Congressman ED MARKEY, Congressman MIKE DOYLE, and Congresswoman DORIS MATSUI of the Energy and Commerce Committee.

Late last year--after hearing from public interest groups, civil rights organizations, religious leaders, small businesses, unions, and education advocates--the Federal Communications Commission issued long-overdue rules for open access to websites and online services.

These standards were a step in the right direction; but they did not go far enough. Standing alone, the rules are not sufficiently clear, consistent, or firm to effectively protect consumers and innovative freedom. But that's not reason to eliminate them; it's reason to strengthen them.

However, the resolution before us today takes us in the wrong direction. It will revoke basic consumer protections of transparency and choice online; eliminate competition and shut off outlets of innovation. And it betrays the democratic values resting at the core of our history, our success, and our country's prosperity.

We live in an era when the Internet has the potential to transform lives for the better--through job creation and economic development; as a venue to communicate, speak out, and exercise our fundamental right to free expression. Democrats and Republicans should be able to agree that we must tap into this potential for the benefit of all Americans. We must work together to maintain and expand an Internet where innovation can flourish, where consumer choice is protected, where the democratic spirit of our nation remains strong.

I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on this resolution.

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