NOTES FCC HAS NO AUTHORITY OVER THE INTERNET AND ALSO NO NEED FOR NEW REGULATION

Washington, Dec 21, 2010 - “Since its inception, the Internet has thrived and grown without any federal regulation,” stated Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL), Ranking Republican on the House Communications, Technology and the Internet Subcommittee. “Without any hint of market failure, the reason for any regulation is non existent.  Furthermore, the Courts have determined that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has no jurisdiction over the Internet.”

When the new Congress convenes next year, Stearns will become the chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee’s Oversight Subcommittee.“Even if there was any reasonable cause to impose Internet regulation, it would be up to Congress to do so,” noted Stearns.  “I will exercise strong oversight on the FCC on this and other issues.  Also, working with Chairman Walden, we will outline that Internet regulation is out of the FCC’s jurisdiction and that regulation will hamper economic growth and job creation.  In addition, I plan to pursue a resolution of disapproval in the 112^th Congress to prevent this rule from being enacted.”