NE Washington News

House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Ted Cruz are leading a coalition of lawmakers in urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to halt its plan to reclassify broadband as a public utility. The lawmakers argue that this move would be harmful to consumers and the industry.

In a letter addressed to Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, the lawmakers emphasize the importance of maintaining the current classification of broadband as an information service rather than a telecommunications service. They highlight that Congress has intentionally chosen to keep broadband free from heavy regulation to promote investment, innovation, and competition.

The letter states, "Your proposal to reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service does the exact opposite. It would give the Commission largely unfettered power to impose... the antithesis of leaving broadband ‘unfettered’ by regulation as the law requires."

Furthermore, the lawmakers point out that recent Supreme Court rulings confirm that the FCC does not have the authority to impose Title II regulations on the broadband industry without clear authorization from Congress. They argue that such a move would negatively impact consumers by inhibiting investment and innovation.

Joining Chair Rodgers and Ranking Member Cruz in sending the letter are several Senators and Representatives, including Sens. John Thune, Roger Wicker, and Reps. Bob Latta, Michael Burgess, among others.

The full text of the letter can be accessed for further details on the lawmakers' arguments against the reclassification of broadband.

For more information, individuals can contact the House Energy and Commerce Committee at (202) 225-3641 or the press office at (202) 226-4972.