The legislation, sponsored by Assemblymember Patricia Fahy, (D-Albany), was introduced in December shortly after a decision by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to repeal regulations that required internet service providers (ISPs) to treat websites equally. Assemblywoman Jenne immediately signed on as a co-sponsor of the legislation.
"Cutting off the ability to do business with the state, I think, is appropriate given the state has funded a lot of the infrastructure that brings the internet to so many people that live in the North Country, particularly our businesses," Assemblywoman Jenne said to a crowd that included representatives from schools, libraries and small businesses.
"A lot of our traditional businesses, like the agriculture industry and the tourism sector, are becoming more and more reliant on technology as well as our many, many, many small businesses that run in the North Country," she added.
"We will have built a bridge to nowhere if we allow companies to essentially censor the content we have access to and prevent the voices and competitiveness of our businesses and entrepreneurs across the state," the assemblywoman said.
"It's the basic foundational principles of fairness and even play, which our country was founded on. Net neutrality, I believe, is a must if we are going to adhere to our long-held founding beliefs," Assemblywoman Jenne stressed.
She said she was pleased Gov. Cuomo signed an executive order directing state entities not to enter into any contracts for internet service unless the internet service providers ISPs agree to follow net neutrality principles.
Assemblywoman Jenne praised Assemblymember Fahy for being a leader on the issue and noted, despite the governor’s action, legislation is necessary to codify the executive order into state law.
She said Congress also needs to take steps to address the inequities that could result from the FCC decision.
IN THE PHOTOS:
TOP PHOTO:
Assemblywoman Addie A.E. Jenne says net neutrality is important to growing business in the North Country. She joined several of her colleagues to call for the state to pass legislation aimed at addressing recent action taken by the Federal Communications Commission. Pictured are (l-r); Assemblymember Didi Barrett, Assemblymember Patricia Fahy, Assemblywoman Jenne and State Senator David Carlucci.
BOTTOM PHOTO:
Assemblymember Patricia Fahy discusses a net neutrality bill she has introduced in the New York State Assembly.