House Republicans are set to challenge the Biden administration’s recent initiative on internet regulations, branding it a significant overreach of federal power.
The joint resolution, spearheaded by Representatives Andrew Clyde and Buddy Carter of Georgia, along with the support of 65 other House Republicans, seeks to overturn the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) new digital equity rules.
Read More: Ohio House of Rep. overrides Veto, enacts bill banning gender-affirming care
House GOP challenges Biden’s internet regulation under CRA
These rules, part of President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, are criticized by the GOP as a means to expand federal oversight over internet services and infrastructure excessively.
The resolution leverages the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to express formal disapproval of the FCC’s regulations that took effect this January.
“Under the guise of ‘equity,’ the Biden Administration is attempting to radically expand the federal government’s control of all internet services and infrastructure,” stated Rep. Clyde, highlighting concerns over potential censorship and innovation stiflement.
Debate intensifies over FCC’s digital discrimination rules
The digital discrimination rules, ratified by the FCC last November, aim to ensure broadband access isn’t denied based on income, race, ethnicity, religion, or national origin.
Vice President Harris has championed these rules as a means to “protect civil rights, lower costs, and increase Internet access for Americans across the country.”
Opponents argue that the FCC’s approach could inadvertently exacerbate the digital divide rather than bridge it.
Opposition grows against FCC’s internet regulation expansion
Rep. Carter criticized the move as an imposition of “heavy-handed government controls” that could hinder broadband investment and expansion.
Supporting their stance, multiple organizations like Heritage Action for America and Taxpayers Protection Alliance have endorsed the GOP’s resolution, echoing fears of overregulation and economic repercussions.
FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr has been particularly vocal, describing the rules as a “breathtaking” expansion of government authority over the internet.
Challenges ahead for GOP resolution against FCC internet rules
Carr’s apprehension centers on the fear that such rules could lead to undue federal micromanagement of internet infrastructure and services, a sentiment that resonates with many critics who see it as a threat to free market principles.
The resolution’s journey is just beginning, with its introduction set for Tuesday.
To succeed, it must navigate through both the House and a Democrat-dominated Senate before potentially reaching President Biden’s desk—a journey fraught with political hurdles.
Also Read: Hunter Biden’s Congressional visit reveals rift with White House team
FCC’s stance on digital equity sparks debate on regulation and innovation
Meanwhile, the FCC has refrained from commenting directly on the resolution, instead referring to statements made by FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel, who emphasized the broad but explicit congressional mandate to ensure and facilitate equal broadband access.
This legislative effort underscores a significant debate over the balance between federal regulation for ensuring equitable access to technology and the potential risks of government overreach.
As the resolution progresses, it will undoubtedly spark further dialogue on the role of government in regulating the digital sphere and the best path forward to achieve digital equity without compromising innovation or market dynamics.
Read Next: Honduran migrant caravan dispersed before reaching U.S. border, Guatemala officials say
