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"Web posted August 1, 2006

'Tubes' wasn't far off the industry jargon
Letter to the editor

"In response to several letters to the editor about my recent remarks on "Net neutrality," it is important to note that Ed Felton, a well-regarded expert on technology and a professor from Princeton University, has stated that my use of the word "tubes" was not far off from the common industry jargon, "pipes."

"The Internet is a myriad web of connections between content providers and consumers around the world. Regardless of whether the connections consist of fiber optic cable, coaxial cable, copper wire or are wireless, it is essential for the future of this country that we encourage universal broadband deployment. In the Communications bill that passed the Senate Commerce Committee, I strongly supported an Internet Consumer Bill of Rights that will protect the consumer's ability to use the Internet connections that they purchase without interference from Internet providers. Consumers will be able to go wherever they want on the Internet at whatever Internet speed they purchase.

"Here is what "Net neutrality" supporters will not tell you. Their current proposals are not well defined and will lead to even broader regulations. There is even disagreement between "Net neutrality" proponents as to what the term means and what regulations they want. The Internet does not need the heavy-handed regulation that "Net neutrality" proponents are pushing. The Internet has flourished without regulatory boundaries and has developed into one of the most amazing information conduits in the world.

"Congress must tread lightly on this subject or risk slowing innovation on the Internet to a crawl, hurting America's technology position relative to other countries.

Sen. Ted Stevens"