Washington, DC --- Today, U.S. Representative Heath Shuler voted against H. J. Res. 37, a resolution intended to strike down the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) open Internet rule.
In December 2010, the FCC adopted an open Internet -- or “net neutrality” -- rule, outlining regulations and obligations for broadband Internet service providers. H.J. Res. sought to overturn the FCC’s rule by authority granted to Congress through the Congressional Review Act (CRA).
The CRA is a mechanism for Congress to reject rules and regulations issued by executive agencies. The CRA procedure deviates from the standard legislative process by prohibiting Members of Congress from debating and voting on amendments, forcing lawmakers to take a straight up-and-down vote.
“While many Members of Congress and I have expressed concerns about certain provisions and the potential effects of the FCC's net neutrality rule, I am opposed to forcing a closed, up-and-down vote on a bill that would have a profound impact on the future of the Internet in the United States,” said Rep. Shuler. “Our economy and millions of jobs depends largely on the viability of the Internet. Any Congressional action on this issue should be done through an open, fair, and transparent legislative process that allows Members of Congress the opportunity to discuss, change, and improve the existing rule.”
A broad coalition of technology and telecommunications companies, consumer advocacy organizations, businesses, and labor groups opposed H. J. Res. 37. White House officials have stated that the President will veto this resolution.
H. J. Res 37 passed the House 240-179.