March 15, 2011
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House Energy and Commerce Committee today voted in favor of a resolution disapproving the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)’s net neutrality rules designed to preserve an open Internet. The full House is expected to debate the resolution later this month.
Consumers Union, the nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports, expressed disappointment with the vote, saying the FCC rules provide important safeguards for consumers and competition in the Internet marketplace.
Parul P. Desai, policy counsel for Consumers Union, said, “Consumers should be able to surf the web without their Internet provider limiting their choices to its preferred sites. That’s what the FCC rules do – ensure that consumers continue to have open and equal access across the Internet. Open Internet rules are critical to protecting consumers. That’s what we hear from consumers and small businesses, as well as religious organizations, civil rights groups, and other key stakeholders. For too long, consumers have been left without any protections over what they can access on the Internet. We need clear rules to preserve choice and innovation in the marketplace and ensure that an open online environment will keep growing.”
Contact: David Butler or Kara Kelber, 202-462-6262