Stearns questions Genachowski on net neutrality

Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Fla.), ranking member of the House Subcommittee on Communications, Technology and the Internet, pointedly asked FCC Chairman Genachowski today why he proceeded with the net neutrality rulemaking process before conducting a thorough market analysis to determine if such rules are necessary.

He also said he hopes Genachowski will respond to the letter he sent last month expressing his concerns. That letter was signed by 20 House Republicans.

Genachowski said this is only the beginning of a proceeding and he plans to answer questions about all issues affected by net neutrality, including expression rights and economic impact.

"The fundamental goal of this proceeding is to ensure the freedom of the Internet," he said. "And an open Internet deserves and open proceeding... We wanted to make sure we had an open process with full participation for everyone as we looked at this very important issue."