Comcast and BitTorrent Initiative Proves Increased Broadband Regulation Unnecessary

WASHINGTON, D.C.-The U.S. Chamber of Commerce today welcomed an announcement by Comcast and BitTorrent that the two companies are working to address the challenges posed by transmitting video and other bandwidth-heavy content over broadband.

"This initiative proves once again that the marketplace is working and that net neutrality regulations are not needed," said William L. Kovacs, Chamber vice president for Environment, Technology & Regulatory Affairs. "The ability to engage in e-commerce is critical for U.S. businesses. The broadband market must not be driven by government fiat but by advances in technology, competition among the many wireline and wireless broadband providers, and consumer choice."

The Chamber believes federal policies must recognize that the intense competition among cable operators, phone companies, wireless carriers, and others for broadband customers requires providers to respond quickly to market developments.

"There is no market failure that justifies government intrusion into this dynamic market," continued Kovacs. "Net neutrality regulations are not necessary and will deter new investment in competitive broadband network infrastructure, slow the deployment of innovative technologies, leave consumers with fewer choices and higher prices, and harm the ability of the United States to compete globally."

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation, representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region. For more information on the Chamber's telecommunications and e-commerce policies, please visit: www.uschamber.com/telecom.

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