State lawmakers in Maryland were attempting to put price controls on internet content through HB 1069 sponsored by Representative Herman Taylor (D-Montgomery County). In response to their efforts, FreedomWorks’ Maryland chapter launched a grassroots campaign which included hundreds of volunteers calling, emailing, and visiting with legislators to urge them to vote against this ‘net neutrality’ mandate. In addition, FreedomWorks Congressional Action Team Leader Bryan Shuy testified in front of the Maryland House Economic Matters committee against HB 1069.

After facing opposition from FreedomWorks as well as several other consumer and taxpayer organizations, Representative Taylor ‘withdrew’ HB 1069.

FreedomWorks Chairman Dick Armey commented:

“Net neutrality, shrouded in a populist cloak, is the first step toward greater government control over the internet that, ironically, would limit consumer access. Regulating the pipes could chase away investors otherwise willing to build the networks of the future that would benefit consumers.

I am proud of FreedomWorks team in Maryland and the role we played in helping to stop HB 1069. This net neutrality legislation presented a serious threat to the free-market in this great state.

The market and competition, not the government should determine prices.”

Although FreedomWorks is pleased that HB 1069 was stopped, the larger fight to stop so-called “net neutrality’’ price control legislation continues. FreedomWorks is engaging in similar campaigns to stop lawmakers from regulating the internet in states such as New York and Maine as well as at the federal level.