Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my amendment to H.R. 4596, which simply adds an additional component to the required report from the FCC. My amendment requests the agency to also answer whether a permanent exemption from enhanced disclosure for small Internet providers, or ISPs, could increase access to the services offered by these small businesses. As many of you already know, these exemptions were created in the FCC's most recent update to the open Internet order. As Congress considers modifying or making this exemption permanent, it is important to know the impact this would have for those people the order was intended to protect, in this case, the consumers. Mr. Speaker, the real purpose of a permanent exemption should not be to just lighten the load for these businesses, but also to increase access to broadband services in general. Even in urban areas, like the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex that I represent, there is still an alarming number of people without access to all broadband services. Congress must work to enact evidence-based policy to expand Internet access. My amendment would simply have the FCC provide additional information regarding the effects of a permanent extension on a small ISP's consumer base. However, after speaking with my colleagues, including the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Loebsack), I am confident that the goal of my amendment will be achieved through the bill itself. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to withdraw my amendment.…”