WGAW Statement Regarding FCC Chairman Pai's Plan to Repeal Rules That Protect the Open Internet

LOS ANGELES – The Writers Guild of America West (WGAW) today issued the following statement regarding FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s plan to repeal the rules that protect the open Internet:

“Chairman Pai’s plan to end net neutrality is yet another step on the path towards total corporate control of the Internet. Pai’s intention to gut net neutrality rules has been evident since day one, and the rulemaking process has completely ignored the overwhelming public support for these rules and the unequivocal benefits of an open Internet. In what is quickly becoming a hallmark of this administration, this order will benefit powerful corporations at the expense of the general public and a competitive, free market. Without the rules, ISPs will be free to decide what content is available to Americans and on what terms, striking a blow to consumers and content creators alike.”

The Writers Guild of America West (WGAW) is a labor union representing writers of motion pictures, television, radio, and Internet programming, including news and documentaries. Founded in 1933, the Guild negotiates and administers contracts that protect the creative and economic rights of its members. It is involved in a wide range of programs that advance the interests of writers, and is active in public policy and legislative matters on the local, national, and international levels. For more information on the WGAW, please visit: www.wga.org.