WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet, released the following statement in reaction to the Department of Justice’s comments to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on network neutrality proposals:

“The Bush administration’s decision to oppose Internet Freedom flies in the face of the open nature of the Internet, which has fostered unprecedented innovation and economic growth. Network neutrality safeguards would preserve the open architecture of the Internet and prevent companies from downgrading and discriminating against competitive Internet services and applications,” said Rep. Markey.

“The Justice Department’s position is consistent with the Bush administration’s failed approach to national broadband policy. American consumers and entrepreneurs deserve better.”