Congressman David Wu: My Hero.
In response to a letter regarding ISP bandwidth caps, Congressman David Wu had this to say:
Dear Mr. Geiger:
Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding proposals to charge Internet users based on consumption ("Internet metering"). I appreciate knowing your thoughts on this issue.
I believe that broadband Internet is essential to our education and economy in the 21st century. The principles that have governed the Internet have worked well, allowing creative people to develop new services, technologies and jobs.
For many Americans, access to broadband Internet remains elusive. Proposals from companies to charge users based on their consumption of Internet services concern me. For example, an individual that uses 50 gigabytes in one month would be charged more than a person who uses 20 gigabytes in a month, based on the "metered" system. I believe this proposal could further limit an individual's ability to access the Internet and could diminish innovation and competition. Further, it would increase the cost for access to the Internet. At a time of economic downturn, I believe this proposal could further impact our recovery efforts.
Recently, there were reports that one company in particular was testing metered rates for its customers. The company has temporarily suspended its efforts to deploy metered rates. As a member of Congress, I will monitor efforts that could affect individuals' ability to access the Internet.
Again, thank you for sharing your concerns. If I can be further assistance, contact my Oregon office at 503-326-2901 or 800-422-4003. To receive regular email updates visit www.house.gov/wu to sign up.
With warm regards,
David Wu
Member of Congress