U.S. Sens. Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy of Connecticut came out against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 3-2 vote to repeal the net neutrality rules that went into effect two years ago.
“The FCC has recklessly and needlessly repealed rules that have kept the playing field level, and defined the success of our current internet economy,” said Blumenthal in an address on the Senate floor. “This action has made a mockery of consumer protection at the expense of our economy. It will disastrously disadvantage small businesses. It threatens the internet”™s incredible success and persistent innovation. And it will harm consumers with higher prices and lower speeds.”
Blumenthal added that FCC Chairman Ajit Pai rallied to repeal the net neutrality rules “in the face of overwhelming opposition,” and warned that federal regulator agencies will need to play “much more aggressive role” in monitoring anti-competitive behavior.
Murphy released a statement forecasting disruptions of internet service based on the FCC ruling.
“Imagine if the power company could decide which of your appliances got steady, reliable electricity while all other products suffered from low power and blackouts,” he said. “Or if the water company could throttle back your water supply if they thought your shower was too long. The reason we regulate utilities is exactly so they can”™t play those games ”” we don”™t allow them to play favorites with consumers or providers. But that”™s exactly what President Trump”™s FCC just did with the internet ”“ broadband providers and big businesses will make a bunch of money, but consumers, small businesses, and startups could be hit hard.”
