Congresswoman McCollum's Statement on the Disapproval of the FCC Open Internet (“Net Neutrality”) Rule

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to H.J. Res. 37 – legislation introduced by the House Majority that would bar the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from enforcing the new rules on Net Neutrality that protect consumer freedom on the Internet.

Last year, the FCC produced a common-sense set of rules that would bar Internet service providers from slowing or blocking consumer access to the Internet. The rules strike a sensible balance between ensuring consumer access to the Internet and the need for Internet service providers' to pursue innovative and equitable business models.

Today, the House Republican Majority brought H.J. Res 37 to the floor. This reckless legislation would strip away the FCC's ability to ensure a fair online marketplace and protect consumers. Moreover, it is being introduced at a time when large corporations are already restricting Americans Internet freedom.

Under H.J.Res 37, consumers would not have a right to know if their Internet connection is as fast as advertised, or how their internet provider is charging them for certain services. This legislation is a threat to the open Internet: without proper enforcement of Net Neutrality rules, competition would be limited, innovation would be hindered, and open access to information would be restricted.

As individuals and businesses increasingly rely on access to high speed Internet, they also rely on federal authorities to develop and enforce essential consumer protections. This radical proposal by House Republicans would demolish the Federal government's ability to carry out these protections and ensure a free and open Internet for our constituents. If the Republican Majority gets their way and this bill becomes the law of the land, consumer choice would be sacrificed in favor of even more power for a handful of corporations.

I urge my colleagues to oppose H.J.Res 37 and I yield back the balance of my time.