Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (Hawai‘i-02) released the following statement on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017, after the Federal Communications Commission voted to repeal Title II net neutrality regulations protecting open, fair, and equal Internet access:
“Today, the FCC voted to put profits over people—a slap in the face to our democracy and the millions of Americans that have voiced comments, made calls, and fought to protect net neutrality. Industry giants like Verizon, Comcast, and AT&T will now be able to control the access and speed of websites, stifle competition online, and turn the Internet into a pay-to-play forum.
“The FCC’s decision today, led by FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, who used to work for Verizon, highlights the pervasive influence of corporations in our democracy. Congress must take action to reverse this decision, and ensure that the Internet remains an open, level playing field for all. We also must address the corruptive influence of special interests in our government by reforming our campaign finance laws, reversing Citizens United and slamming shut Washington’s revolving door.”
Rep. Gabbard has been a leader in the fight to protect net neutrality and has cosponsored legislation to prohibit multi-tiered pricing agreements between ISPs and content providers. She has voted against legislative efforts to undermine net neutrality, called on the FCC to maintain net neutrality rules, and urged the American people to voice their opinions during the FCC comment period.
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