FCC Policies Challenged

The Federal Communications Commission was back under the microscope this week as the agency fended off more criticism about its decision making process in the wake of its proposed net neutrality rules. Already dealing with an investigation as to whether or not the White House influenced Chairman Tom Wheeler’s decision to regulate the internet as a utility, the agency is also being probed about the transparency of its policy-making process. 

Decision Making Probe

Republican lawmakers have taken issue with the agency’s decision making process, saying that some of its commissioners were cut out of important policy decisions. On Thursday, the House Energy and Commerce Committee raised their concerns about the matter and asked Wheeler to provide documentation supporting the FCC’s compliance with its policy-making guidelines, which stipulate that all commissioners are entitled to a say in important decisions.

FCC Already Under Fire

The latest investigation comes at a trying time for the FCC as several groups are opposing the organization’s decision to class the internet as a public utility. The new set of rules is being vehemently opposed by most service providers, who say it is possible to protect net neutrality without subjecting the internet to the same regulations placed on telephone and electricity companies. Comcast Corp CMCSA and Verizon VZ both say the regulations will keep companies from investing in their networks and will quash the possibility of innovation among providers. Many are also worried that the classification will allow future administrations to set prices take control of the industry.