GOP Reps Back Verizon on Net Neutrality Rules

Republicans on the House Energy and Commerce Committee have issued strong support for Verizon in its challenge of the Internet neutrality rules recently issued by the Federal Communications Commission's. Chairman Fred Upton (Michigan) joined Reps. Greg Walden (Oregon) and Lee Terry (Nebraska) in lauding the move Thursday, The Hill reports.

"We welcome the decision by Verizon, and hopefully others, to demand their day in court to block the FCC's misguided attempt to regulate the Internet. At stake is not just innovation and economic growth, although those concerns are vital," the congressmen say in a statement.

"Equally important is putting a check on an FCC that is acting beyond the authority granted to it by Congress. Between our legislative efforts and this court action, we will put the FCC back on firmer ground."

Verizon filed its suit in the Washington, D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, the same court that rejected the FCC's attempt to impose net neutrality last year.