Blumenthal Slams FCC Repeal of Net Neutrality Rules

[WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) issued the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to repeal rules ensuring the neutrality and openness of the internet, known as “net neutrality.” The measure passed the five-person commission by a vote of 3-2, along party lines. Blumenthal spoke on the Senate Floor yesterday in opposition to the proposal, joining several colleagues from the Senate Democratic Caucus in a colloquy. Video of his speech is available here.

“The FCC has recklessly and needlessly repealed rules that have kept the playing field level, and defined the success of our current internet economy. This action has made a mockery of consumer protection at the expense of our economy. It will disastrously disadvantage small businesses. It threatens the internet’s incredible success and persistent innovation. And it will harm consumers with higher prices and lower speeds. In the face of overwhelming opposition, Chairman Pai and the Republican majority of the FCC have damaged the open internet as we know it, and with it the uniquely American accessibility and spirit that has allowed it to thrive,” Blumenthal said.

“Without these protections, antitrust agencies and other regulators must play a much more aggressive role – including more vigorous and frequent investigations of anticompetitive behavior – but even that will not be sufficient to neutralize the harm caused by the FCC’s rash and destructive action.”