CAGW Opposes FCC-Imposed Net Neutrality

Washington, D.C. - Citizens Against Government Waste (CAGW) today expressed its opposition to news that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering levying sanctions against the Comcast Corporation for blocking some Internet traffic.

“While some companies may choose to offer unfettered Internet access to attract consumers, it should never be forced upon by the government,” said CAGW President Tom Schatz.  “What the FCC is contemplating amounts to imposing network neutrality.”

“Net neutrality” would allow the federal government to continue to shape the content and use of the Internet.  Any government interference or regulation of the Internet will require the requisite bureaucracy to manage and the cost will be foisted on the taxpayers.  Once a bureaucracy is created it naturally expands, not contracts. 

Consumers have more Internet choices than ever before.  Cable, satellite and wireless broadband providers are competing head-to-head for customers and providing better services at lower prices.  Coerced “net neutrality” would suppress innovation.  Pricing and web content are both means of competition.  Without a plethora of consumer options, monopolies will arise and push out the smaller companies that can find a niche in the marketplace. 

Net neutrality also weakens intellectual property protections.  If an Internet service provider is required to allow all traffic to flow, that will include the illegal uploading and downloading of music, movies, books or any other protected intellectual property. 

“The FCC should do absolutely nothing about this matter,” concluded Schatz.  “Comcast has already taken steps to ensure a fast and seamless Internet experience by working out a technical fix with file sharing entities such as BitTorrent.  The free market will continue to work without any FCC action.”

Citizens Against Government Waste is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement in government. 

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