With U.S. net neutrality rules set to expire June 11, the entire Senate Democratic caucus and one Republican Senator are planning to force a vote this week to restore the internet rules.  Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), and Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) announced today that they will lead their Senate Democratic colleagues in forcing a vote on Wednesday, May 16 on Senator Markey’s Resolution of Disapproval to undo President Trump and FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s repeal of the net neutrality rules.

Currently, all 49 members of the Senate Democratic caucus support the resolution, along with Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine). The resolution needs only a simple majority of Senators present to pass.

“The internet should be kept free and open like our highways, accessible and affordable to every American, regardless of ability to pay” said Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. “The repeal of net neutrality is not only a blow to the average consumer, but it is a blow to public schools, rural Americans, communities of color, and small businesses. A vote against this resolution will be a vote to protect large corporations and special interests, leaving the American public to pay the price.”