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For Immediate Release The Open Internet Coalition applauds reports that FCC Chairman Genachowski will make an announcement tomorrow to lay out a path for extending key protections to consumers using broadband Internet services, and to ensure the National Broadband Plan can be implemented in several key areas. Markham Erickson, Executive Director of the OIC, issued the following statement: "After Comcast v. FCC, consumers were essentially stranded on the information highway without protection from the FCC. This step by the FCC ensures that consumer choice and innovation on the broadband Internet will receive the protections this essential communications infrastructure for the 21st century requires. "Limited reclassification of the transmission component of broadband access will allow the FCC to clarify its legal authority to ensure consumers are fully protected against blocking or degradation of websites and applications of their choice by broadband providers, and that ubiquitous and affordable high-speed broadband is fully built out across America. It is a middle path that ensures that broadband access providers are not subject to an overly regulatory structure, while still ensuring that some basic rules of the road apply. It is a win-win for consumers, Internet and technology companies, and broadband access providers. "This approach has been supported by both Chairman Waxman and Chairman Rockefeller. It does not prevent Congress from speaking to this issue in the future. And it provides fast action to ensure we do not lack oversight for an extended period of time." About the Open Internet Coalition: The Open Internet Coalition (openinternetcoalition.com) represents consumers, grassroots organizations, and businesses working in pursuit of a shared goal: keeping the Internet fast, open and accessible to all Americans. |
Open Internet Coalition Applauds Genachowski’s Decision to Protect Broadband Consumers
May 05, 2010