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Yesterday, Congressman Latta introduced H.R. 4752, legislation to ensure the Internet remains open and free from government interference by limiting the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) authority to regulate broadband under Title II of the Communications Act.

Here's what the industry is saying:

Grant Seiffert, Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) President:

“As the courts have already ruled, the FCC has the existing authority, using a lighter touch approach, to protect consumers from possible abuses. Heavy handed, utility-like regulation should have no role for the Internet, and TIA supports efforts, such as the Latta proposal, which make that clear.”

Genny Morelli, Independent Telephone and Telecommunications Alliance (ITTA) President: 

"Congressman Latta’s legislation wisely recognizes the potential threat excess regulation poses to the future of the Internet and broadband investment.  The FCC should look no further than the success the Internet has been able to achieve absent Title II regulation and exercise restraint when contemplating future regulation.... Congressman Latta's legislation will help provide the certainty ITTA member companies need to continue investing in robust broadband networks without the fear of excess regulation."

National Cable & Telecommunications Association:

“Since the late 1990's, policymakers and regulators have established a bipartisan consensus that a light regulatory touch provides the best path for ensuring that the Internet will become an engine of economic growth and social prosperity. We support the efforts of Vice Chairman Latta to codify current policy and to ensure that the Internet continues to grow and remains open and free from the burdens of outdated, public utility regulation.”

Walter McCormick, USTelecom President:

"We support Congressman Latta’s legislation as being consistent with the conclusions reached by previous FCCs, under both Democratic and Republican Chairs, that broadband should not be subject to Title II, and with the longstanding bipartisan majority in Congress who believe that 21st century technology should not be burdened with 19th century rules.  The legislation reinforces the proven success of light-touch regulation in encouraging investment and innovation, and will help meet the public’s interest in expanded broadband deployment and adoption. We applaud his leadership.”