WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to two decisions from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today adopting rules to protect net neutrality and supporting the right of municipalities to construct broadband networks, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) – a strong proponent of both causes – released the following statements.

On the FCC’s vote to preserve the open Internet by putting in place clear, enforceable rules, Senator King said:

“This historic decision cements the most basic and fundamental principles of the digital age: that the Internet is a powerful engine for social and economic opportunity, that it empowers free speech and innovation, and that it must, in every way, remain open to all – not just the highest bidder. By protecting access to the Internet using a well-tailored regulatory approach, the FCC is providing market certainty that will allow the Internet to continue to be a powerful, open platform where all speakers, creators, and innovators can harness its resources now and in the future.

“I believe this decision is a watershed event, which will benefit all Americans – businesses, communities, and citizens – both now and for the foreseeable future. I commend the Commission and Chairman Wheeler for listening to the American people and for having the courage and vision to seek out a path that ensures a vibrant and open Internet for generations to come.”

Through the vote, the FCC reclassified broadband Internet access under Title II of the 1996 Telecommunications Act, enacting bright-line rules that prevent the blocking of lawful content, the throttling of content, and paid prioritization. Senator King has vigorously advocated for the FCC to preserve net neutrality. In September 2014, he urged FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler in a letter to implement “strong and unambiguous” rules under Title II with appropriate forbearance that will guarantee regulatory certainty and open and equal access to the Internet for everyone.

In a second vote, the FCC also granted a pair of petitions from the City of Wilson, North Carolina and the Electric Power Board of Chattanooga, Tennessee to preempt state restrictions on their ability to expand their broadband infrastructure to surrounding areas. Senator King said:

“More and more communities across the country are recognizing that access to high-speed broadband is an economic and educational necessity. In areas where affordable access to next-generation speeds doesn’t exist, forward-looking towns and cities – like Rockport, South Portland, and Ellsworth in Maine – are partnering with broadband providers to connect their public buildings, businesses, and residences. Today’s decision to clear the way for the expansion of municipal broadband projects sends an important message of support to localities around the country that are taking charge of their economic futures.”

Senator King, who is a strong supporter of expanding broadband access to rural parts of the country, is a cosponsor of the Community Broadband Act. The bill, like today’s FCC decision, would support local choice and ensure that municipalities across the country are able to consider municipal broadband networks as affordable, reliable options to help enhance economic development, improve access to education, health care, and other public services. Rockport, South Portland, and Ellsworth, Maine have all advanced ultra-fast broadband projects through public-private partnerships.

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