Why the FCC Must Clarify its Commitment to Public Service

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[Commentary] Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski should remember one simple message as his agency clarifies its authority over Internet access services: The agency's job is to serve the public.

Accordingly, the FCC's primary concern should be the needs of the nation, not those of big telecommunications or cable carriers. Yet last week, Chairman Genachowski held closed-door meetings with industry, in an effort to search in vain for a compromise on open Internet principles and other public interest protections. Despite its goal to serve the public, the FCC did not invite citizens' organizations to the table at these meetings, and did not divulge details regarding the discussions that took place. The agency should put a stop to such private meetings with industry, and must continue an open dialogue on the future of broadband directly with the American people, who are the real stakeholders in these critical decisions. Keeping the process transparent will stay true to the Obama promise of an open government.


Why the FCC Must Clarify its Commitment to Public Service