WASHINGTON, Sept. 21 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski's announcement of proposed new rules on net neutrality:

"I applaud Chairman Genachowski and the FCC for undertaking a rulemaking process to preserve openness and competition on the internet. By embracing principles of nondiscrimination and transparency, this proceeding will ensure that the internet continues to be an engine of innovation, job creation and free speech for all Americans.

"With health IT and smart grid technologies, we have seen the profound role that the internet can play in addressing national issues such as health care and climate change. The more the internet encourages investment, innovation, and consumer choice, the more effective it will be in helping to tackle these and other challenges. I look forward to working with the FCC to preserve and promote an open, transparent, and competitive internet for all Americans."

SOURCE Office of the Speaker of the House