Tim Fox Still Silent on FCC Net Neutrality Ruling

Helena—Yesterday, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to repeal net neutrality provisions that help ensure a free and open-internet for all Americans. More than 24 hours later, Montana’s chief law enforcement officer and consumer protection advocate, Attorney General Tim Fox, has remained silent on the FCC’s decision.

Fox’s silence is particularly noticeable in contrast to a letter that 18 Attorneys General across the country sent the FCC earlier this week requesting the vote be delayed  because of millions of fake comments published on the FCC website. In the wake of yesterday’s decision, Fox has also not joined a multi-state lawsuit challenging the ruling.

Net neutrality protections have strong bipartisan support among statewide elected officials, including Senator Jon Tester, Governor Steve Bullock, and Secretary of State Corey Stapleton.

And in August, local internet service providers held a forum in Missoula to discuss the importance of net neutrality rules in maintaining a free and open internet in Montana.

“This week, Attorney General Tim Fox remained deafeningly silent as Washington bureaucrats voted to eliminate internet freedom protections and allow cable corporations like Verizon and AT&T to throttle the internet and line their pockets,” said Roy Loewenstein, Communcations Director for the Montana Democratic Party. “It is Attorney General Fox’s responsibility to fight for and protect the rights of consumers across Montana, so why is he nowhere to be found on net neutrality?”

The FCC’s decision will allow broadband corporations like Verizon and AT&T to charge more for faster internet service while slowing down, or even blocking, websites they do not favor.

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