Aug. 1, 2008 - FCC Comcast Action Signals Importance of Internet Freedom to Future of Telecom Policy
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Representative Edward J. Markey (D-MA), chairman of the House Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet, today released the following statement in reaction to action by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to reprimand Comcast Corporation for slowing Internet traffic from BitTorrent Inc.:
“The FCC’s decision today underscores the importance of Internet freedom for consumers and entrepreneurs. I have introduced bipartisan legislation, the ‘Internet Freedom Preservation Act,’ (H.R. 5353), with Representative Chip Pickering (R-MS), to establish a policy framework for resolving this critical issue and to ensure that consumers and entrepreneurs are protected against unreasonable interference or discrimination from broadband network providers. Going forward, I believe today’s FCC action sends a strong message to the industry that the Commission intends to take Internet freedom principles seriously and will act to protect the integrity and openness of Internet commerce and communications.
“Vigilance by regulators and policymakers, coupled with a commitment to act when necessary, is vital to thwart the emergence of new bottlenecks to competition and innovation. I commend Chairman Martin, as well as Commissioners Copps and Adelstein, for their recognition of this fundamental tenet of realistic telecommunications policymaking.
“For its part, I understand that Comcast has already begun efforts to modify its network management approach and I believe its efforts to treat content providers in a more non-discriminatory way from a network management standpoint are laudable and welcome. I intend to continue monitoring practices in the industry and pressing for passage of my legislative framework for addressing these issues in the months ahead.”
