House Telecom Subcommittee Votes to Overturn FCC's Net Neutrality Rules

On March 9, the House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology passed a resolution to repeal the FCC's Open Internet rules. Introduced by Republican Subcommittee Chair Greg Walden, the vote on H.J. Res 37 went along party lines — with Democrats holding strong in their defense of the FCC's policy. Using a procedure under the Congressional Review Act, the subcommittee passed the resolution by a vote of 15-8, disapproving of the FCC's Open Internet rules.

Several outspoken Representatives supported the net neutrality protections designed to keep the Internet open and innovative.

Committee Ranking Member Henry Waxman made a compelling case for keeping the net neutrality rules. He emphasized that efforts by congressional Republicans to overturn the FCC's rules distract from other important telecom issues, including universal service reform.

California representative Anna Eshoo made another strong show of support for Open Internet principles. Joining her were the voices of hundreds of supporter letters from religious leaders, consumer groups, ISPs (including the NCTA and CTIA), and high tech associations from across the country.

The vote against the FCC's open Internet protections came after a subcommittee hearing on the same topic. Speaking in opposition to any congressional effort to overturn the FCC's rules were Derek Turner of Free Press and Robin Chase, CEO of Buzzcar. AT&T's Jim Cicconi testified that the FCC's rules give the company the regulatory certainty it needs to move forward on job-creating investments.

CWA supports the FCC's Open Internet rules and oppose congressional action to overturn them.

H.J. Res 37, Disapproving the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission

Response from NCTA President and CEO Kyle McSlarrow

Response from CTIA President and CEO Steve Largent

Written Testimony of S. Derek Turner, Research Director at Free Press

Written Testimony of Robin Chase, CEO of Buzzcar

Written Testimony of S. Derek Turner, Research Director at Free Press

CWA Opposes Efforts to End Open Interent; House Actions Jeopardize 21st Century Infrastructure