Network Neutrality Behind Closed Doors

House Commerce Committee staff, as expected, met with interested parties on network neutrality legislation, but they wouldn't say which companies or groups showed up. Remember, the committee originally invited the CEOs of Facebook, Alphabet, Amazon and Netflix to testify at a hearing along with chief executives of the major telecoms, but later extended (apparently indefinitely) the deadline for them to respond.

"We are pleased that so many stakeholders in the internet and tech communities have provided substantive feedback in our efforts to protect a free and open internet," said committee spokesman Zach Hunter, declining to name attendees. "We look forward to continued progress and providing certainty for both businesses and consumers alike with a permanent, legislative solution." It's all part of a Republican effort to push forward a net neutrality bill, which has been stalled amid opposition from Democrats intent on keeping the fight focused on the Federal Communications Commission. According to the committee, Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR) still plans to hold a Sept. 7 hearing on the topic.