Wicker: 'Antiquated' Internet Regulation Will Threaten Innovation and Investment

May 7, 2010

WASHINGTON – In response to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski’s intent to impose stricter regulation on the Internet under Title II of the Communications Act, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement:

“I am extremely concerned about Chairman Genachowski’s proposal to reclassify broadband services under an antiquated regulatory regime.  Doing so would seriously threaten innovation and investment in the Internet marketplace.  The unburdened Internet allows communities and small businesses to remain competitive in the local, national, and global marketplaces.

“There is no evidence that imposing this degree of regulatory control over the Internet is necessary or that it would benefit consumers.  Unfortunately, this effort appears to be little more than another attempt by the Administration to take over private industry and stifle our economy. This is not how a good government operates.

“I am committed to working with the FCC and my colleagues to ensure the Internet remains consumer-focused and free of unwarranted regulations that would hinder its continued success.”

Sen. Wicker serves on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

                                                        ###