Democrats introduce Tenneseee Net Neutrality bill

Democrats introduce their Net Neutrality bill at a press conference in Nashville on Jan. 23, 2018. From right are Senate Minority Leader Lee Harris, Rep. John Ray Clemmons, and Rep. Dwayne Thompson. (Photo credit: Schelzig, Tennessee Journal)

Press release from legislative Democrats on HB1755:

NASHVILLE, TN – In the wake of the FCC’s recent vote to repeal net neutrality regulations, State Representative John Ray Clemmons (D-Nashville) and State Senator Lee Harris (D-Memphis) have introduced the “Tennessee Net Neutrality and Internet Consumer Protection Act” to enact and enforce net neutrality rules at the state level.

State legislators in Washington State, New York, California and Massachusetts have introduced similar legislation in recent months.

“Our legislation will protect consumers, ensure equal access to information, foster opportunity for innovation, and ensure a level playing field for our startup community,” said Rep. John Ray Clemmons. “A free and open internet is crucial to growing our economy statewide.  Tennessee has the most resourceful, innovative, and hardest working folks around, and they deserve an equal opportunity to participate in the 21st-century economy.”

“The Internet is almost a public utility at this point.  Everyone deserves equal and open access,” said Sen. Lee Harris “This move by the Trump administration hurts consumers, innovators, and our small businesses. The legislation we have filed will ensure that Tennessee stays on the path of creative entrepreneurship.”