FCC Commissioners Respond to Open Internet Decision

  • Federal Communications Commission Chairman Thomas Wheeler: “The D.C. Circuit has correctly held that ‘Section 706 . . . vests [the Commission] with affirmative authority to enact measures encouraging the deployment of broadband infrastructure’ and therefore may ‘promulgate rules governing broadband providers’ treatment of Internet traffic.’ I am committed to maintaining our networks as engines for economic growth, test beds for innovative services and products, and channels for all forms of speech protected by the First Amendment. We will consider all available options, including those for appeal, to ensure that these networks on which the Internet depends continue to provide a free and open platform for innovation and expression, and operate in the interest of all Americans.”
  • FCC Commissioner Clyburn: “We must ensure that consumers do not become casualties in our efforts to balance competing interests. Our actions should preserve consumer access to content of their choice, and our policies should advance competition, investment and innovation. The FCC’s public interest obligation requires us to seek solutions that are guided by these principles. I look forward to working with Chairman Wheeler on next steps.”
  • FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel: “I support an open Internet that drives innovation, experimentation, and economic growth. I am pleased that the D.C. Circuit recognized the Commission’s authority to encourage the deployment of broadband infrastructure. I look forward to further studying the court’s opinion and working with my colleagues to ensure that the great ecosystem the Internet supports continues to create jobs, opportunity, and digital age prosperity.”
  • FCC Commissioner Pai: “For the second time in four years, the D.C. Circuit has ruled that the FCC exceeded its authority in attempting to regulate the Internet. It is time for the Commission to take no for an answer. Unless Congress acts, we should stay our hand and refrain from any further attempt to micromanage how broadband providers run their networks. We should focus on removing regulatory barriers to broadband deployment, not imposing unnecessary rules that chill infrastructure investment.”
  • Commissioner Mike O’Rielly: “Once again, the D.C. Circuit has confirmed that the Commission’s authority to regulate is not boundless. Rather than continue to test those boundaries with ‘prophylactic’ regulations, the Commission should look for ways to remove regulatory obstacles to the broadband innovation and investment that will benefit all consumers.”

FCC Commissioners Respond to Open Internet Decision Statement (Commissioner Clyburn) Statement (Commissioner Rosenworcel) Statement (Commissioner Pai) Statement (Commissioner O’Rielly)