WASHINGTON, D.C. – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) today voted against the Democrats’ partisan legislation to restore burdensome regulations on the internet that stifle rural broadband deployment and investment. Earlier this year, Cathy introduced legislation modeled after Washington state’s bipartisan law to restore portions of net neutrality without the onerous and arbitrary regulations that would hurt Eastern Washington.

Yesterday, Cathy took to the House floor to urge Democrats to stop the rhetoric and look for a bipartisan solution that protects consumers without hurting small businesses and risking rural investment. You can watch her full remarks here:

“Democrats say they want to ‘save the internet.’ However, in the time since Title II regulations were repealed under the Trump administration, network speeds are up drastically. Investment and coverage in rural areas has increased,” said Cathy. “This debate isn’t about the merits of an open Internet. I support an open, free Internet, and I always have. This is truly about how we shape the future of our economy.”

She continued, “I’ve introduced legislation modeled after a bill that passed in Washington state enjoying bipartisan support — overwhelmingly. In fact, it was lauded by Senator Cantwell, and she said, ‘In our state Republicans and Democrats came together… Why can’t we see this same bipartisanship in the U.S. House?’ And I ask my Democratic colleagues that same question.”

NOTE: Learn more about Cathy’s Promoting Internet Freedom and Innovation Act by clicking here.

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