On November 10th, President Obama issued a statement that called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to issue a rule that protects network neutrality and the Open Internet. Currently, the FCC is working to develop a set of rules regarding how Internet Access Providers can deal with Internet traffic. All eyes of the nation have been on the FCC as they grapple with how to preserve the Open Internet under stronger legal authority.
In his statement, President Obama said “an open Internet is essential to the American economy, and increasingly to our very way of life. By lowering the cost of launching a new idea, igniting new political movements, and bringing communities closer together, it has been one of the most significant democratizing influences the world has ever known.” The President respectfully asked the FCC to adopt policies “to preserve this technology’s promise for today, and future generations to come”.
A number of Internet and tech trade associations released statements praising the President on his support of preserving the Open Internet. Michael Beckerman, President and CEO of the Internet Association made the following statement:
“The Internet Association applauds President Obama’s proposal for the adoption of meaningful net neutrality rules that apply to both mobile and fixed broadband. As we have previously said, the FCC must adopt strong, legally sustainable rules that prevent paid prioritization and protect an open Internet for users. Using Title II authority, along with the right set of enforceable rules, the President’s plan would establish the strong net neutrality protections Internet users require. We welcome the President’s leadership, and encourage the FCC to stand with the Internet’s vast community of users and move quickly to adopt strong net neutrality protections that ensure a free and open Internet.”
In addition, CCIA President & CEO Ed Black made the following statement:
“A groundswell of millions of comments supporting the Open Internet is evidence of the importance of having effective rules preventing paid prioritization and discriminatory treatment. Neither the FCC nor Internet Access Providers should any longer ignore the political urgency behind the support for Title II from the public, from the most innovative and competitive sectors of industry, and now clearly from the President. The challenge now is for the FCC to act promptly and to make sure opponents of the Open Internet don’t use complexity and confusion as tools to weaken this effort to issue new rules protecting the Internet. The Internet has grown immensely in importance and we are at a fork in the road. We’re glad President Obama is willing to take the lead on an issue that may be looked back upon as one of the most enduring parts of his legacy. It is historically important that the Internet enhances freedom for all rather than profit for a few. The FCC has the obligation to ensure that the basic the rules of the road will protect the openness that has made the Internet so useful. President Obama stated when campaigning back in 2008 that it’s better to ensure the Internet benefits all users and businesses – rather than a few dominant network providers. It is heartening that he is striving to keep his commitment to maintaining this critical communications, social and economic platform.”
Read President Obama’s full statement or find more information on eBay Inc.’s position on net neutrality.