Dear editor,

My name is Lee Wittman, and I am a 15-year-old citizen of Marshfield, WI.  I am writing to inform you of my support of S.J. RES. 52 which would nullify the FCC rule entitled, “Restoring Internet Freedom.”  S.J. RES. 52 was recently passed in the Senate and as an affected citizen, I hope that you will support the passage of this bill.

I am strongly opposed to the FCC rule “Restoring Internet Freedom” for two reasons.  Firstly, as a consumer of the internet, “Restoring Internet Freedom” has the potential to significantly limit the number of websites that I am able to access.  ISPs are now allowed to charge companies such as Netflix and Facebook massive fees to have their services placed on so called “internet fast lanes,” while new start up companies may not be able to afford to pay the price.  This may have the effect of allowing just major companies to dominate the internet, thereby reducing competition.

Secondly, I believe that the internet should be classified as a utility. When the Telecommunications Act of 1996 was passed, there was no doubt that access to the internet was optional rather than mandatory. This is far from the case today.  Without internet access, it would be impossible for me to complete my homework on a daily basis, and my dependence on the internet will only continue to grow as I hope to attend college and become an engineer. The internet is a necessary utility, that it only makes sense that it should be classified as such.

The issue of net neutrality is a troubling matter to me and I ask that you support S.J. RES. 52 so that my access to the internet will not be hindered.

Sincerely,
Lee Wittman
Marshfield, WI