September 8, 2003  

Congressman Rick Boucher
U.S. House of Representatives
2187 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington , D.C. 20515

Dear Congressman Boucher:  

AeA wishes to express its continuing support for Internet users to be able to have complete access to the online content they wish to have.  The issue of network neutrality is extremely important for the high-tech sector, more so now that broadband Internet access is increasing across the country.  In order to promote broadband acceptance and help spur the economic recovery of our industry, consumers need to know that they will have the same unfettered access to web content over their broadband connections as they do over their narrowband connections – regardless of the equipment they use or their online destination.  

Over thirty years ago, the FCC promoted the standard that assured open networks over telephone lines – a standard that made consumer products such as fax machines and modems possible – and helped pave the way for the Information Age.  We ask you to continue this standard into the 21^st century, as Americans adopt high-bandwidth connections. There is considerable concern that without rules ensuring that the principles of open network architectures are applied to both telephone and cable broadband, network operators could impose interference and access restrictions to consumers just because they opted to use a device or a service not affiliated with the provider’s commercial site.  This would be harmful to not only consumers, but to the companies who serve those consumers.

Recently, FCC Chairman Michael Powell made a comment that the FCC did not know what business model is going to finally identify the “sweet spot,” nor do we know what suite of services consumers will value and pay for.  However, Mr. Boucher, it is for this very reason that the FCC should treat telephone and cable broadband under the same rules.  Consumers should decide which products and services should survive, not network operators.

AeA (American Electronics Association) is the nation's largest high-tech trade association, representing more than 3,000 unique companies with over 1.8 million employees.  These 3000+ companies span the high-technology spectrum, from software, semiconductors, medical devices and computers to Internet technology, advanced electronics and systems and services.  The overwhelming majority of our member companies create the tools and services that American consumers both use and enjoy online.  

Mr. Boucher, we respectfully request your help in championing the issue of network neutrality with your colleagues in the House of Representatives.  It is crucial for both American consumers, and the high-tech companies that serve them.  Please feel free to contact me, or Marc-Anthony Signorino, AeA’s Technology Policy Counsel, at 202/682-4428 with any questions or concerns.  

Sincerely,    

(Signed)
William T. Archey

This page was last updated on 10/30/03.  
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