Summer's Shenanigans

Here is the email I got back from California Senator, Barbara Boxer, when I emailed her about the importance of Network Neutrality:

"Dear Miss Hogan:

Thank you for contacting me regarding network neutrality, which is the principle that consumers should have access to the Internet content and applications of their choice without interference from network operators. I appreciate the opportunity to hear your views on this issue.

As a longtime advocate for network neutrality, I believe that network operators should facilitate, not stifle, Americans' access to the Internet. Individuals' ability to define and shape their experiences on the Internet has led to an explosion of creativity that has greatly benefited our economy and our lives. I fear that if network operators abandon the principle of network neutrality, the next generation of Internet innovators will be harmed.

As you may know, Congress is considering several bills on this issue. On June 8, 2006, the House of Representatives passed H.R.5252, a major telecommunications reform bill. Unfortunately, this bill does not contain any network neutrality provision.

A similarly broad telecommunications bill, S.2686, has been introduced in the Senate by Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK). In its current form, this bill's network neutrality provision fails to protect open and equal access to the Internet. In fact, S.2686 merely directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to study the issue. As a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, which is now considering S.2686, I am working to improve this provision.

In addition, I am co-sponsoring S.2917, the Internet Freedom Preservation Act. This bill would prevent network operators from discriminating against their competitors' use of the network by giving certain content preferential treatment.


Again, thank you for writing to me. Please be assured that I will keep fighting for legislation that will ensure that the Internet remains an engine of growth for commerce and ideas.


Barbara Boxer
United States Senator"

So the good thing is that Barbara Boxer supports Net Neutrality. The bad news is that many senators couldn't care less about it, so be sure to contact your state senator, damn it!! Save the mother f-ing internet, already!!!