In response to the recent announcement by FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski that he would seek to redefine existing federal telephone regulations to cover the Internet, the Hispanic Technology & Telecommunications Partnership (HTTP) issued the following statement:

“The Chairmen of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Senate Transportation and Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet, along with the Chairmen of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and House Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet, have jointly announced they would start a process to develop proposals to update the Communications Act.

We applaud the leadership of the House and Senate Chairmen for taking this much needed step, and appreciate the efforts of several members of the Hispanic Caucus, for their recent communications to FCC Chairman Genachowski expressing concern that the FCC’s “Third-Way” proposal could lead to economic uncertainty and result in job losses. We see this as a sign that Congress shares HTTP’s concerns regarding the FCC’s proposal.

As the first step, Congress intends to invite stakeholders to participate in a series of bipartisan, issue-focused meetings beginning in June, and we look forward to participating in these meetings.

Congress’ bi-cameral response on this very important policy issue should send a clear message to the FCC that it cannot take unilateral action on the regulatory changes it is seeking to make without the input of Congress.  Even those who have pushed for the regulatory changes proposed by the FCC should welcome Congress’ engagement in this debate, as Congress is exactly where this debate should be taking place.

For millions of Americans, the most pressing Internet issue is being able to find affordable access, and the FCC’s “Third Way” once again has placed the concerns of sophisticated internet users over those of civil rights organizations which have long championed the need to ensure that every American has access to the Internet.

The Commission has had an uneven record of addressing the needs of millions of Americans who find themselves on the other side of the digital divide.  We hope that as a result of Congress’ announcement today that the Commission will refocus itself on advancing policies that will support the goals of the National Broadband Plan.

The openness and freedom of the Internet that exists today is important to all Americans, and that is something we all agree must be protected.  As always, HTTP is eager to work with the Commission on developing a better way forward that serves all Americans.”