Andrade Introduces Bill in Response to Trump’s Attack on Net Neutrality

Chicago, Ill. – State Rep. Jaime Andrade, D-Chicago, has introduced legislation to combat the Trump administration’s FCC ruling which rolled-back internet protections for consumers.

“The FCC’s ruling under Trump’s directive to reverse Obama-era protections that were in place to protect consumers and prevent large corporations from engaging in harmful and unfair practices is unacceptable,” Andrade said. “We must do what we can to protect the hardworking people of our state who rely on the internet for key services.”

Andrade’s House Bill 5094 would require internet service providers to publically disclose their network management practices as well as their commercial terms so consumers may make informed decisions when choosing a provider. His bill would also prohibit providers from engaging in what is known as “paid prioritization,” which is blocking, slowing down, degrading, or otherwise favoring lawful content for the benefit of outside parties.

“The internet’s many uses has made it an integrated and critical part of everyday life,” Andrade said. “It is used for educational purposes, paying bills, streaming content, and communication to name a few, so it is vital that we ensure equal access.”