WASHINGTON, DC - House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) and Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR) today announced that the Communications and Technology Subcommittee will hold a hearing on FCC oversight, and specifically the commission’s consideration of Net Neutrality rules, on Wednesday, December 10.
“Ignoring the term ‘independent agency,’ the president this week wanted the world to know who was boss when it comes to net neutrality. As the FCC moves closer to a vote that could put the government in control of the Internet, it is imperative that the Congress hears directly from all five commissioners and leading stakeholders. The Internet has thrived as a beacon of technological advancement, social connectivity, and economic growth because the FCC and Congress have rightly decided that a hands-off approach is best," said Upton.
Walden added, “While the president remains steadfast in his support for a government take-over of another critical piece of the American economy, the FCC commissioners must remain resolute in our nation’s commitment to keep the Internet free of government control. The commission’s vote may be weeks or months off, but this issue is critical to the future growth of the American economy. Treating the Internet as a public utility would tie the hands of job creators, stifle innovation on the information superhighway, and hurt consumers by depriving them of the freedom of choosing the services they want. We look forward to an update on these proceedings in early December as we continue our efforts to protect consumers, and the job creation and innovation necessary to sustain American leadership in the Internet economy."
Additional information about the hearing, including witness list, testimony, and start time will be available here as they are posted.
