Matsui Amendment to CRA Would Preserve Industry Transparency

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, March 15, 2011

CONTACT: MARA LEE
(202) 225-7163

Matsui Amendment to CRA Would Preserve Industry Transparency

Today, Congresswoman Doris O. Matsui (D-CA) participated in the House Energy and Commerce Committee mark-up of the Congressional Review Act, and offered an amendment to the legislation. The Matsui Amendment would preserve the portion of the Open Internet Order that imposes a transparency requirement on broadband providers, so that consumers are able to make informed choices.

The transparency requirement is critical to creating competition in the broadband technology sector. And as we know, competition supports innovation, innovation leads to expansion, and expansion generates jobs, Congresswoman Matsui said.

Congresswoman Matsui pointed out that the transparency requirement is the least controversial aspect of the Open Internet Order, and is widely supported by both the broadband industry and consumer groups. In fact, during last week's Energy and Commerce hearing on the Open Internet Order, all six witnesses voiced their support for a strong transparency requirement.

Such transparency is also important for providing consumers with the information to make informed decisions, for creating trust in the broadband technology sector, and for increasing broadband adoption rates, added Matsui. Preserving the transparency requirement is essential, as any repeal of it will surely have unintended consequences for industry and consumers alike.

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