Minority Chambers of Commerce voice net neutrality concerns

Justin Nelson

Washington, DC, Feb. 3 2010 – Yesterday the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, National Black Chamber of Commerce and U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce held a teleconference to discuss a joint letter they submitted to the FCC's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on net neutrality.  

The U.S. Pan Asian Chamber of Commerce also endorsed the letter, wherein the groups challenge the FCC's claim that codifying Internet openness principles will help to expand broadband networks. The chambers thanked the FCC for its transparent process but recommended the focus turn toward broadband expansion and adoption rather than regulation.  

"Broadband access is critically important to the economic growth and success of small businesses," says Justin Nelson, president, National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. "But invasive network regulations stagnates the expansion of broadband infrastructure which is needed to meet the growing needs of small businesses in an increasingly interconnected world."

The chambers agreed that broadband networks and services encourage innovation and job creation.  They want the FCC to aim for policies that lead to more investment in broadband networks so more consumers and businesses can benefit from high-speed Internet access.