Blackburn requests cost-benefit analysis of proposed net neutrality rules

Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) requested on Thursday that the FCC conduct a cost-benefit analysis of proposed net neutrality rules that are scheduled for a vote in May.

In a letter to FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler, Blackburn said the FCC is pursuing regulatory action that could change the landscape of the Internet and harm consumers.

“Congress has clearly stated that it is the policy of the United States to preserve the vibrant and competitive free market that presently exists for the Internet and other interactive computer services, unfettered by federal or state regulation,” Blackburn said. “For decades, the Internet has been an open and competitive free market without regulatory action from the FCC and will continue to remain competitive without any new regulations from tax delinquent Washington bureaucrats.”

The FCC announced on Wednesday that it would propose new rules that allow companies to pay Internet service providers for special, faster lines to transmit video and other content to their customers.

Those proposed changes would impact net neutrality, the concept that providers of legal content should not face discrimination in providing its services to customers.

“Before the administration takes any reckless steps that could jeopardize the explosive growth and innovation of the Internet, it is important the FCC is able to explain the potential costs and its impact on jobs to the American people,” Blackburn said. “That is why I am calling on Chairman Wheeler to follow Executive Order 13563 initiated by President Obama and conduct a cost-benefit analysis before any rule goes into effect.”

Earlier this year, Blackburn introduced the Internet Freedom Act. The measure would prohibit the FCC from regulating specific network management practices of broadband Internet service providers.