Contact: Aaron White
Phone: 202-225-5506
Aaron.White@mail.house.gov
Introduces Resolution to Protect a Free and Open Internet
La Crosse – Today, Rep. Ron Kind introduced the bicameral Congressional Review Act resolution of disapproval, which will override the Federal Communications Commission’s ruling limiting the free and open internet and reinstate the 2015 net neutrality rules.
“Wisconsin small businesses, schools and families depend on a free and open internet,” said Rep. Ron Kind. “I am proud to stand up to the FCC on behalf of the people of Wisconsin, and demand that the internet access we rely on stays open and affordable for everyone.”
In December, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to dismantle the 2015 regulations that allowed the FCC to prevent internet providers from blocking or slowing down certain websites, and charging customers extra fees. The Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution of disapproval would overturn the FCC’s recent decision, and protect the free and open internet.
Wisconsin ranks 32nd of America’s most connected states, with 1/5 of the state’s population considered “underserved” or with limited access to high-speed internet. Over 920,000 people in Wisconsin have access to only one internet provider, with 200,000 people living in communities without any wired internet providers. The FCC’s ruling to overturn net neutrality could have major cost and access implications for those living in underserved areas throughout the state.
