Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Thune Commends FCC's Internet Freedom Order

Senate Commerce Committee Chairman John Thune (R-SD) took to the Senate floor to praise the Federal Communications Commission'’s work and transparency while calling on supporters of an open internet to support bipartisan legislation.

"As a result of Chairman Pai’s commitment to transparency, the public has the benefit of not only viewing the item, but also participating in the process. Despite attempts by those more interested in politicizing the issue and distracting from the debate, this item resulted in the most well-informed and exhaustive record of comments ever submitted at the FCC. The FCC is now well-positioned to move forward to ensure the internet is open and free....As I have stated repeatedly, and I will say again today, Congressional action is the only way to solve the endless back and forth on net neutrality rules that we’ve seen over the past several years. If my colleagues on the other side of the aisle, and those who claim to support net neutrality rules, want to enshrine protections for consumers with the backing of the law, I call on you today to join me in discussing legislation to do just that....True supporters of an open internet should be demanding such legislative protections today – not posturing while waiting for years during protracted legal proceedings or waiting for the political winds to turn. It is time for Congress to settle this debate and I welcome discussion on ways to ensure a free and open internet for decades to come.”