WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Edward J. Markey (D-MA), chairman of the House Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet, released the following statement in reaction to news of network management discussions between cable provider Comcast Corporation and BitTorrent Inc. A dispute between the two companies has been highlighted in recent debate over the future of the Internet.

“Although today’s announcement by Comcast and BitTorrent will not result in the immediate cessation of the network management techniques that have drawn scrutiny from policymakers and the Internet community, I commend the parties for announcing their intention to take certain steps and to attempt to reach broader agreements down the line. Comcast deserves credit for taking this action.

“I intend to monitor the ongoing discussions to see if they result in a material change in Comcast’s controversial network management techniques and whether any future changes adequately protect innovation, openness, and consumer choice on the Internet. I also want to commend the recent work of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in examining this issue and for exercising its jurisdiction.

“It is important to keep in mind, however, that today’s announcement does not include any statement by Comcast that it concedes that the FCC has authority to act in this area to protect Internet freedom. Moreover, even if today’s announced discussions prove successful, they may ultimately involve only the policies of one broadband provider with respect to Internet traffic over its network.

“As a result, I believe this episode underscores the continuing need for overarching legislation so that all broadband providers and affected providers of content, applications, and services are covered. The bill (H.R. 5353) introduced by myself and Representative Chip Pickering (R-MS), establishes national broadband policy to protect Internet freedom for entrepreneurs and consumers. It also creates a framework within which the FCC can conduct an assessment and report on such freedoms, as well as the network management mechanisms employed by broadband providers across industries.

“I believe that the proactive and continuing oversight and involvement of both the Congress and the FCC in this area will be crucial in the months ahead and look forward to working with all interested parties in this important work.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 27, 2008

CONTACT: Jessica Schafer, 202.225.2836