Washington, DC – Yesterday, Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-09) submitted a formal request to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai, asking to address the full Commission at tomorrow’s open meeting. While outside entities have previously been given the opportunity to speak at these meetings – which are open to the public – Chairman Pai has disregarded this precedent and denied the Congressman’s request.

In response, Congressman McNerney issued the following statement:

“I’m very disappointed that the FCC Chairman has not only denied my request to address the full Commission, but has also denied my previous request to speak with him one-on-one prior to the vote on the elimination of net neutrality protections. Even more distressing is the fact that I am not alone. The Chairman has refused to speak with members from both sides of the aisle regarding the drastic action the Commission is about to take tomorrow.

“Tomorrow’s vote is crucial to the free flow of ideas and the future of our economy. Net neutrality protections are the core of a free and open internet, simultaneously serving as a safeguard for free speech and a catalyst for innovation.

“As members of Congress, we were sent to Washington to represent the American people – including the consumers, small business owners, and many more who will be directly affected by tomorrow’s vote. Thousands of constituents have reached out to me to express their concerns about the Chairman’s proposal to roll back net neutrality protections. The Chairman’s refusal to honor either of my requests – and the requests of other members – is also a refusal to hear the concerns of those Americans that we represent.”

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Rep. Jerry McNerney proudly serves the constituents of California’s 9th Congressional District that includes portions of San Joaquin, Contra Costa, and Sacramento Counties. For more information on Rep. McNerney’s work, follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @RepMcNerney.