Peters, Stabenow Introduce Resolution to Reinstate Net Neutrality

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow introduced a resolution to overturn the Federal Communications Commission’s decision to repeal net neutrality rules that ensure a free and open internet for all Americans. The resolution, which would fully restore the 2015 Open Internet Order, has the support of 50 members of the Senate, including Republican Senator Susan Collins. Only one more vote is needed for the Senate to take action.

“We live in an increasingly interconnected world, and access to an open internet is more vital than ever for Michigan small businesses, startups, students and job-seekers,” said Senator Peters. “I was very disappointed in the FCC’s decision to scrap net neutrality protections. This resolution would take steps to undo the FCC’s decision and help ensure the internet can continue being a hub for innovation and economic opportunity for everyone.”

“Internet access isn’t a luxury for people in Michigan; it’s a necessity,” said Senator Stabenow. “High school students need the internet to do their homework at night, and small-business owners need it to sell their products. Just one more vote will keep the internet open and free.”

A copy of the resolution can be found HERE.

Last week, the FCC’s rule repealing net neutrality was published in the Federal Register, leaving 60 legislative days for the Senate to vote to overturn the resolution. The FCC’s Open Internet Order prohibited internet service providers from blocking, slowing down, or discriminating against content online. Repealing these net neutrality rules could lead to higher prices for consumers, slower internet traffic, and even blocked websites. A recent poll showed that 83 percent of Americans do not approve of the FCC’s action to repeal net neutrality rules.