More on Fairness Doctrine

Elated that Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski has agreed to remove the “Fairness Doctrine” and several related rules from the Code of Federal Regulations, the Chairmen of the House Commerce Committee and House Communications Subcommittee now want to know when.

“We are heartened by your continued opposition to the Fairness Doctrine because of its chilling effects on free speech and the free flow of ideas,” Chairmen Upton and Walden wrote in a letter to Chairman Genachowski. “When precisely will you eliminate the Fairness Doctrine and related regulations? What is involved? Do you have the support of your fellow commissioners? How long will it take?”

They added:
“We are also pleased by your commitment in the letter to abide by President Obama’s Executive Order 13563 on Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review, even though it does not bind independent agencies such as the FCC. A thorough review of the Commission’s regulations and the repeal of outdated rules will unleash private sector investment, spur growth and create jobs for the American people. Unfortunately, the path forward remains unclear. We have yet to see a plan from your agency on how it will implement the January 2011 order and begin eliminating other outmoded and economically harmful regulations. When will you begin eliminating other antiquated rules that stifle investment and harm innovation? What concrete steps will you take to reduce the burden on small businesses, who are today’s primary engine for jobs growth? How many jobs will you create through your deregulatory efforts? Unnecessarily burdensome regulations are never appropriate, but eliminating them quickly is all the more important in light of the continued fiscal distress we find our country in."

They requested a response by close of business Friday, June 10, 2011.