Divided FCC adopts rules to protect free, open internet

Decision likely to face intense scrutiny on Capitol Hill once hostile open-web Republicans take over as big-moneyed interests look to prevent the little guys’ free voice

STATEMENT BY FCC COMMISSIONER MIGNON L. CLYBURN
ON FCC MEETING TO VOTE AN ORDER PRESERVING THE OPEN INTERNET

“The open Internet is a crucial American marketplace, and I believe that it is appropriate for the FCC to safeguard it by adopting an Order that will establish clear rules to protect consumers’ access.  The Commission has worked tirelessly to offer a set of guidelines that, while not as strong as they could be, will nonetheless protect consumers as they explore, learn, and innovate online.  As such, I plan to vote to approve in part and concur in part the Open Internet Order during the FCC’s open meeting … .

“I appreciate the hard work of my colleagues, and I am especially grateful for the commitment and dedication of Commissioner Copps, who has worked many years on behalf of consumers to ensure an open Internet.  I also want to thank the many stakeholders who have worked diligently on these issues and took the time to call, write, and visit me to convey their concerns.  I am also grateful to Chairman Genachowski, his staff, and the many others at the Commission who worked around-the-clock on this proceeding.

“As a Commissioner whose task is to safeguard consumers and the public interest, I will continue to watch the growth of the Internet and will applaud industry advances and milestones.  I will also seek out and facilitate any collaboration between myself, my colleagues, corporate stakeholders, and public interest representatives, as there can be no better path forward than that which is achieved through consensus.”