House GOP Targets New Regs

The Washington Times reports:

House Republicans waged a two-fronted attack on President Obama’s agenda last week by passing measures to repeal rules regarding Internet “neutrality” and the regulation of greenhouse gases.

And while the bills have little if any hope of becoming law, the lawmakers say they will continue to push back at what they say is an administration bent on overextending government’s power.

“Under Republican leadership, the House is focusing on ending anti-growth government regulations,” said House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, Virginia Republican. “We will continue to pursue policies that encourage businessmen and women to innovate and expand to ensure their long-term success.”

The GOP-controlled chamber on Friday voted 240 to 179 to disapprove a 2010 Federal Communications Commission rule that bans Internet-service providers from blocking traffic on their networks.

The rules also allow telecommunications and technology giants such as Verizon, Comcast and AT&T to “reasonably” manage their networks and charge consumers based on usage.

Republicans contend the rules needlessly impose government regulation on the Internet that ultimately will hinder the industry and stifle innovation.

“Once again, we’re here to put the brakes on runaway bureaucracy,” said House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, Michigan Republican. “The FCC has overstepped its authority and is attempting to seize control of one of the nation’s greatest technological success stories.”

Democrats counter that they’re consumer friendly and were needed to curb the growing market power of large service providers.