WASHINGTON - September 29 - On Wednesday, key members of Congress announced an end to a legislative process that attempted to provide a short-term solution to problems created by Bush-era deregulatory policies.

Free Press Political Adviser Joel Kelsey made the following statement:

“Free Press appreciates the leadership of Chairman Waxman and his efforts to engage all stakeholders in the legislative process. We commit to continuing to work toward preserving an open Internet on all networks, and to making broadband available and affordable to all Americans.

“In the wake of Chairman Waxman’s announcement, consumers need FCC action now more than ever. The FCC must exercise its authority to protect Internet users and implement the National Broadband Plan. Consumers are currently unprotected, and it would be irresponsible for the FCC to fail to act.

“The so-called solution proposed by Congressman Barton, which would leave the FCC a toothless watchdog, is the surest way to allow a few large companies to carve up the Internet and gouge consumers.”