Last year, Markey submitted amicus brief in support of the FCC’s Open Internet rules

Washington (June 14, 2016) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee and House author of the 1996 Telecommunications Act, today applauded the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision in support of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Open Internet rules. Last September, Senator Markey and Rep. Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.) led 28 members of Congress in an Amicus Brief in support of the FCC’s Open Internet rules. 

“Today’s court decision makes clear that net neutrality is here to stay,” said Senator Markey. “The court decision affirms what we already know to be true: that the FCC has the power to classify broadband Internet access service according to its best and current understanding of the technology, and how consumers harness that technology. The battle for net neutrality is the battle for our online future, and today’s ruling is a victory for consumers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and anyone who counts on the Internet to connect to the world.  This decision celebrates the free and democratic expression of ideas that is the hallmark of our online ecosystem. Protecting net neutrality ensures that the best ideas, and not merely the best-funded ideas, will rule the day.”

Senator Markey and Rep. Eshoo previously led Senate and House Democrats in calling on the FCC to put strong net neutrality rules in place by reclassifying broadband as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act.