Statement from Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee and author of the first net neutrality bill introduced in Congress. 

 

 "Openness is the Internet's heart and nondiscrimination is its soul, and infringements on either of these features undermines the spirit and intent of net neutrality. No one should have to ask permission to innovate, and we need to retain the ability of all Internet users to communicate and compete on a level playing field, preventing the presence of fast and slow lanes that are contrary to the essence of the Internet. The Internet's rules of the road must not open up fast lanes to those who can pay, leaving others stuck in traffic. As this process moves forward, I plan to closely review the proposal and work to ensure that it properly safeguards the openness and vitality of the Internet for all users, entrepreneurs and our economy for generations to come."