Washington (October 19, 2023) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) released the following statement today after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to issue its proposed rule to reinstate net neutrality rules and reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act:

“The COVID-19 pandemic clearly demonstrated that broadband – like electricity and water – isn’t a luxury, it’s essential infrastructure. Today, the Federal Communications Commission recognized that by advancing strong net neutrality protections and rightfully reclassifying broadband as a Title II service. These rules will protect the free and open internet, create a level playing field for all businesses, and help ensure a just broadband future. We commend Chairwoman Rosenworcel for this historic action and will not stop fighting until strong net neutrality protections are fully restored.”

In September, Senators Markey and Wyden led their Senate colleagues in a letter to FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel calling on the FCC to expeditiously reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act and restore net neutrality protections.

In July 2022, Senators Markey and Wyden and Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07) introduced the Net Neutrality Broadband Justice Act to reinstate neutrality and reverse damaging Trump-era deregulation. In 2006, Senators Markey and Wyden introduced the first neutrality bills in the House of Representatives and Senate, respectively.

###