Following the repeal of Net Neutrality consumer protections by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), EPB Fiber Optics of Chattanooga officials said they are "re-affirming our commitment to upholding Net Neutrality standards for our customers. To this end, EPB Fiber Optics has recently updated its Customer Care Pledge by adding two points that speak specifically to this issue."
David Wade, president and CEO of EPB, said, “By deploying America’s first community-wide all-fiber optic network capable of delivering Gig Plus speeds to every home and business in our service area, EPB has the capacity to continue providing our customers with a world-class internet experience without the need to slow or prioritize any of the internet traffic across our network.
“In the best interests of our customers and our community, EPB will uphold the Net Neutrality standard.”
Mr.
Wade cited EPB’s Customer Care Pledge "as a clear communication of EPB’s approach to upholding Net Neutrality principals along with other aspects of EPB Fiber Optics commitment to personalized customer service:"
EPB Customer Care Pledge
The best possible service delivered with the utmost respect. That's always been our commitment to our customers — and it always will be.
· Internet Privacy - We never sell your web site browsing information or online content
· Open Internet (Net Neutrality) — Every home and business customer can send web content through EPB's network at the same fast speed without having to pay extra
· Fair and Equal Internet — EPB doesn't play favorites when it comes to online traffic, so businesses of all sizes have a level playing field for delivering new and innovative options for customers. That's good for customers and good for creating new jobs
· Internet without data caps or speed throttling
· Free installation and no contracts
· No hidden fees or surprise billing
· Neighborly customer service, 24/7/365 to serve you
Mr. Wade also "emphasized the importance of open internet standards as the internet becomes increasingly essential to accessing opportunity in the United States and across the world."
He said, “Whether you’re talking about grade school students completing their homework or adults re-training for new careers, applying for jobs, or working from home, the internet provides critical access to educational and economic opportunities.
“At the same time, the internet has become a primary platform for business operation, growth, and innovation. In the near future, healthcare delivery and other essential human services will be transformed by the internet. That’s why EPB Fiber Optics is committed to providing a standard of internet service that doesn’t create barriers, restrictions, or delays for our customers.”
Rep. Tom Graves (R-GA-14) issued the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to dismantle Net Neutrality regulations:
He said, “I commend Chairman Pai and the FCC for approving this plan to restore Internet freedom. It’s the result of an open and transparent process that provided all relevant documents and information to the public ahead of the vote.
"The plan will repeal Obama-era net neutrality regulations, which stifled innovation and competition on the Internet and did nothing to protect consumers. Returning to a free and open internet will ensure the online marketplace continues to flourish while increasing broadband access for rural and low-income Americans.”