Washington, D.C. — Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Republican Leader of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement on H.R. 1644, House Democrats’ Government Controlled Internet Act.

“In the 21st century, the internet is a central component in our lives. Given its importance, Congress must fight to preserve free and open access for all consumers. House Democrats’ proposed government takeover of this key resource would result in overregulation, decreased innovation, and limited accessibility for Americans. Broadband services provide the infrastructure that allows edge providers, like Facebook and Twitter, to deliver content; yet the Democrats’ bill does not include any provisions related to edge providers. I offered an amendment to this legislation to study the entire internet ecosystem, and I am glad it was one of the two Republican amendments that were adopted. Nevertheless, this bill will not become law without good faith compromise and bipartisan collaboration. Going forward, I hope that we can work together to achieve our goal of a free and open internet for all Americans.” 

Dr. Burgess’ amendment to H.R. 1644, adopted by a voice vote, directs the Government Accountability Office to study the full internet ecosystem, including the influence of all online entities, in order to protect access to a free and open internet for every consumer.

As a proponent of bipartisan collaboration on net neutrality legislation, Dr. Burgess has co-sponsored the following bills that would preserve the free and open internet.

• H.R. 1101, codifying blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization rules, sponsored by Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR). 
• H.R. 1006, the Open Internet Act, sponsored by Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH).
• H.R. 1096, the Promoting Internet Freedom and Innovation Act, sponsored by Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA). 

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