Markey Decries Republican Net Neutrality Bill as a Wolf in Sheep's Clothing

Statement

As the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) prepares to vote on new net neutrality rules at its February meeting, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today blasted new Republican net neutrality legislation as a giveaway to the big broadband companies that would harm consumers and do little to protect an open, unfettered Internet.

"Democrats and Republicans both agree on the need for net neutrality protections, but this Republican proposal should be called the Big Broadband Baron Act. It is a legislative wolf in sheep's clothing, offering select few safeguards while undermining basic consumer, privacy and accessibility protections. It would harm low-income, disabled, senior and rural consumers, and undermine competition in the telecommunications marketplace.

"This proposal would prevent the FCC from enacting the strongest net neutrality rules, promoting universal service, protecting privacy, ensuring accessibility, and encouraging municipal broadband networks. This is a wish list for the big broadband companies looking to protect their interests and avoid consumer protections.

"Rather than pursuing this damaging legislative proposal, the FCC should use the clear authority granted them by Congress to vote on strong net neutrality rules in February and reclassify broadband under Title II. The future of the Internet as we know it depends on it."

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