In response to the FCC vote last week on network neutrality and the Open Internet, The Computer & Communications Industry Association, an international, nonprofit association representing a broad cross section of computer, communications and Internet industry firms, made the following statements:

“We appreciate that the Commission has kept an open mind about the best way forward in terms of a legal framework for guarding Internet openness.  Wheeler called the Internet a national asset that he will not allow to be compromised. We hope that strong verbal commitment indicates the FCC is ready to in good faith explore all its options including its authority under Title II of the Communications Act to protect the Open Internet.  We agree with Commissioner Rosenworcel that the Internet is indeed ‘the future of everything’ and we can’t weaken the openness upon which this valuable communications and economic platform rests. But to accomplish what so many agree must be accomplished we need a clear, unambiguous final rule that does not rely on enforcement based on the discretion and enthusiasm of whatever commissioners are serving now or in the future.”  -- CCIA President & CEO Ed Black

 “It is encouraging that the FCC, as the expert agency charged by Congress with ensuring all Americans' access to advanced telecommunications services has launched this proceeding to take public input on how best to safeguard the quality and openness of everybody's access to the Internet.   After two previous FCC attempts to establish open Internet protection failed in court when challenged by Internet access providers, this FCC has wisely asked for input on the best legal framework for protecting the open Internet.” -- CCIA Vice President Cathy Sloan

Read more about eBay Inc.’s position on network neutrality and preserving the Open Internet,