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McCaul on Keeping the Internet Open

April 10, 2019

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Michael T. McCaul (R-TX), the Lead Republican on the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Chairman Emeritus on the House Homeland Security Committee, released the following statement on keeping the internet open:

Congressman McCaul: "The internet has flourished into an information gateway that permeates every aspect of our society. It's vital that it remain a free, vibrant, and innovative eco-system. Despite Democrat's hyperbolic rhetoric, the internet does not need to be saved. Today's proposal is not a solution; it presents a partisan approach fueled by overbearing regulation.

"Republicans and Democrats largely agree on guiding principles for the internet, such as preventing blocking, throttling, or paid prioritization. This bi-partisan common ground is where we can find a long-term legislative solution.

"The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) was long-tasked with overseeing internet services, because it has the far-reaching experience overseeing data security and privacy practices. After restoring the FTC's more reasonable federal oversight, broadband investments increased by over $2 billion and download speeds increased nearly 40 percent over the past year. As innovation progresses, and we employ 5G technologies, heavy-handed regulation of the Internet is not the answer.

"I remain fully committed to finding a bi-partisan solution that protects the innovation and access to the internet."