[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 54 (Wednesday, April 13, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E703]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          DISAPPROVING FCC INTERNET AND BROADBAND REGULATIONS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. EARL BLUMENAUER

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 8, 2011

  Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, as a strong supporter of net neutrality, 
I oppose H.J. Res. 37. The Internet has revolutionized the way the 
world learns, interacts, and does business. It has remained a dynamic 
and rich platform because it has been open and accessible to all, from 
start-up businesses, school groups, and individuals, to news 
organizations and government. I am using Twitter and Facebook regularly 
to help me keep in touch with Oregonians.
  This resolution would disapprove the FCC's open Internet ruling and 
undermine the enforceable policy for keeping the Internet free from 
discrimination. Americans have the right to access to the legal content 
of their choice. H.J. Res. 37 denies this freedom and eliminates 
consumer protections in favor of corporate interests. Internet service 
providers would be able to act as gatekeepers, blocking legal content 
like Netflix and picking winners and losers among applications and 
services.
  H.J. Res. 37 puts into question whether innovation will be allowed to 
flourish on the Internet. It would stifle start-up businesses and slow 
economic growth. Congress should protect the free and open Internet to 
strengthen our economy and create jobs. Instead, H.J. Res. 37 
undermines these principles and puts the power to choose which content 
you can access in the hands of corporate interests.
  Maintaining a free and open Internet is critical to a vibrant 
democracy and economic development. I hope my colleagues will join me 
in opposition to this harmful resolution.

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