Walden, Latta Dismayed by Dysfunctional FCC Process

Press Release

House Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR) and Vice Chairman Bob Latta (R-OH) expressed dismay with the latest evidence of opaque decision-making at the Federal Communications Commission, including reports that final items were not distributed to FCC Commissioners for today's open meeting until just before the vote.

"The chairman did not need to do it this way. Deliberations at the FCC need to include all commissioners. Period." said Walden. "When commissioners don't receive drafts of proposals until shortly before the vote, there has been a colossal breakdown of process, collegiality, and trust that should characterize the work of the commission. If Chairman Wheeler's intent is to keep his fellow commissioners in the dark and uninformed -- then job well done. But for the sake of sound policymaking, public confidence and good process, commissioners should have ample time and ability to thoughtfully consider items before voting on them."

"Today's item on improving the Universal Service Fund schools and libraries program could have been a bipartisan success story -- bringing 21st century educational tools to the students that need them to thrive," said Latta. "Unfortunately, Chairman Wheeler's "my way or the highway' approach to working with his fellow commissioners has resulted in a partisan outcome that will ultimately place new costs on American consumers. The American people deserve better."

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