GOP lawmakers urge FCC to repeal net neutrality rules ahead of vote

by Harper Neidig - 12/13/17 4:05 PM ET

More than a hundred House Republicans sent a letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Wednesday applauding the agency’s plan to repeal its net neutrality rules.

“This proposal is a major step forward in the effort to clear the way for the substantial investment necessary to advance our Internet architecture for the next generation and close the digital divide,” the group of 107 House members wrote.

{mosads}”When its effects are fully realized, more Americans than ever will experience the benefits of telemedicine, distance learning, streaming video, and future innovations made possible by broadband.”

The group was led by Reps. Greg Walden (R-Ore.) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.).

The letter comes on the eve of the FCC’s vote to scrap the Obama-era net neutrality rules that require internet service providers to give equal footing to all web traffic. Supporters have tried to rally to save the consumer protections, and many Democrats have called on the FCC to cancel its vote.

Rep. Mike Doyle (D-Pa.) has also promised to introduce legislation that would overturn the repeal effort after Thursday’s vote.

Tags Federal Communications Commission Greg Walden Marsha Blackburn Marsha Blackburn Mike Doyle Net neutrality