Net Neutrality

Much has changed since I first played a role in developing the 1996 Telecommunications Act, as a member of the House Commerce Committee. The goal of new telecommunications reforms must be to limit regulation and establish a technology-neutral marketplace that allows for greater innovation and competition. As a result, customers in Idaho and throughout the country will see greater choices at lower prices.

As a part of the ongoing debate on the extent to which it is appropriate for the government to promote competition through additional regulation, many have argued for the government to impose new mandates on "network neutrality." There is no universal definition of network neutrality. It is generally accepted that Internet Service Providers should not have the authority to block subscriber access to legally available content. However, further regulation, that would prevent the offering of additional or enhanced services for an additional cost, would be an unnecessary infringement on the free market. As this issue is brought before and voted on by the Senate, I will maintain my support for legislation that promotes accessibility, competition and innovation in the telecommunications industry.

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