Issa to FCC: Did the White House write the net-neutrality rules?

Issa alleged that private participation by the White House would represent a violation of disclosure rules and a breach of the independent nature of the FCC. 

In particular, he wanted to know if former White House advisor and staunch net-neutrality advocate Susan Crawford had spoken to the FCC about the rules. 

Issa sent a follow-up letter on Dec. 29, 2010, a few days after the commission had passed its regulations. He reiterated his request for a response. 

Responding in late February, Genachowski defended the commission for communicating with the White House.

The law “does not prohibit communications between commissioners and commission and staff and members of the administration,” he said, arguing that disclosure standards were not violated. 

“The commission’s office of the general counsel is not aware of any potential violations of the ex parte rules in connection with the subject matter in your letter,” he said. 

The FCC passed net-neutrality rules over Republican objections last year. The regulations aim to rein in how phone and cable companies may treat Internet traffic. Congressional Republicans are attempting this year to repeal the rules.