NE Washington News

House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chair Bob Latta have strongly criticized the Federal Communications Commission's decision to reclassify broadband under Title II of the Communications Act of 1934.

Rodgers stated, "These efforts by President Biden's FCC are just the latest attempt by Democrats to assert more federal government control over people's lives." She further added, "Energy and Commerce Republicans will take steps to hold the FCC accountable—including with the introduction of a CRA—as we work to stop the agency's efforts to reimpose regulations."

Latta echoed Rodgers' sentiments, emphasizing the negative impact of such a decision on closing the digital divide and hindering the U.S.'s ability to lead in next-generation wireless technology.

The Republican leaders have been actively opposing the FCC's move, with Chair Rodgers and Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Ted Cruz leading a coalition in sending a letter urging the FCC to reverse its decision regarding "net neutrality." The letter, signed by every Republican on the Committee, called on the FCC to reconsider its stance.

Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans have been vocal in their stance against the FCC's reclassification of broadband, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an environment that fosters investment in broadband networks, faster internet speeds, and lower prices for consumers.

For more information, the statements from Chairs Rodgers and Latta regarding the FCC's revival of the net neutrality debate can be accessed online.