Federal Communications Nominee Says Congress Should Address Net Neutrality

WASHINGTON, June 26, 2023 – Federal Communications Commission nominee Anna Gomez leaned toward a preference for Congress to adopt legislation on net neutrality as the policy takes center stage during a committee hearing on Thursday.

When asked if the FCC should seek direction from Congress before addressing net neutrality, a rule barring service providers from speeding up or throttling internet traffic or giving preference to certain services, Biden-backed nominee Anna Gomez said she would like to “help, if confirmed, with efforts towards legislation.” However, she emphasized that the FCC should still have “robust” oversight over broadband internet.

Her response marks a subtle departure from the commonly held viewpoint among Democrats, including Gigi Sohn, a former FCC nominee also endorsed by President Biden, who unequivocally advocated for the FCC’s progression in rolling back net neutrality.

Responses from other FCC incumbents Brendan Carr and Geoffrey Starks remain divided along the party line, with Carr supporting more guidance from Congress while Starks said the FCC currently has the authority to proceed with net neutrality.

Since the FCC’s decision to reverse net neutrality in 2017, heated discussions have taken place on whether or not to reinstate the policy. The primary determinant right now is for Congress to place broadband services back under Title II, which would define broadband as “internet service” and give the FCC authority to enforce net neutrality rules.

Many have been advocating for the return of net neutrality, including FCC chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. Last year, a group of Democrat senators also introduced the Net Neutrality and Broadband Justice Act to codify net neutrality.