McCain Bill Would Ban FCC Internet Regulations

Chloe Albanesius
PC Mag
Friday, Oct 23rd, 2009

It was good while it lasted.

Just when it seemed like net neutrality stakeholders had reached a cautious consensus on Thursday's proposed Federal Communications Commission rules, our favorite maverick stepped in with an idea of his own.

Sen. John McCain, an Arizona Republican, introduced a bill Thursday that would prohibit the FCC from enacting rules that would regulate the Internet. The FCC "shall not propose, promulgate, or issue any regulations regarding the Internet or IP-enabled services," according to the bill text.

Exceptions are made for national security, public safety, to assist with actions taken by a federal or state law enforcement agency, or to ensure the solvency of the universal service fund.

The bill will "allow for continued innovation that will in turn create more high-paying jobs for the millions of Americans who are out of work or seeking new employment," McCain said in a statement. "Keeping businesses free from oppressive regulations is the best stimulus for the current economy."

Full article here