WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Edward Markey (D-Mass.), former chairman and current member of the Communications, Technology and the Internet (CTI) Subcommittee, along with CTI members Reps. Anna G. Eshoo (D-Calif.), Mike Doyle (D-PA) and Doris Matsui (D-Calif.), today sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Julius Genachowski in advance of Thursday’s FCC open meeting at which the FCC will consider a Notice of Inquiry (NOI) to begin a public process to evaluate potential legal frameworks for broadband Internet services.
In their letter, the legislators expressed their support for FCC Chairman Genachowski’s proposed “Third Way” approach to restore and reaffirm the authority of the Commission to regulate broadband communications services following the D.C. Circuit’s decision in Comcast v. FCC. The letter noted that:
-The consideration of a Notice of Inquiry (NOI) at the Commission’s June 17, 2010 public meeting is an important step in the development of the nature of such authority, and we commend you for initiating the NOI, which will enable the public to take part in this vital process.
-The Commission’s actions at this critical juncture will help shape the future of America’s telecommunications and technology sectors and the framework for consumer access to broadband services now and for future generations.
-Increased availability and adoption of broadband will improve our country’s global competitiveness compared to other nations, many of which already have made broadband a priority. Without the proper legal authority to implement all facets of the Plan, we will not fulfill its promise or achieve its goals.
-We agree that your proposition’s application of sections within Title II to broadband services is appropriate and necessary, as they cover fundamental consumer protection issues such as privacy and access for individuals with disabilities.
A full copy of the letter can be found here http://markey.house.gov/docs/letter.open_meeting6-16-10.pdf
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