Media Contact: 
Robin Colwell, (202) 418-2300
Robin.Colwell@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
STATEMENT OF COMMISSIONER MICHAEL O’RIELLY 
ON SIXTH CIRCUIT MUNICIPAL BROADBAND DECISION
WASHINGTON, August 10, 2016. — “Although this saga may not end here, I am 
heartened by Sixth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals’ decision. The FCC clearly tried to 
invoke imaginary authority and finally was called out by a court for doing so.
Unless Congress specifically authorizes FCC intervention, States rightly can limit 
government-operated broadband networks in order to protect their citizens’ pocketbooks 
and good senses. Contrary to some beliefs, municipal networks are not panaceas to 
solving any lack of ubiquitous broadband, but instead unfairly distort the 
marketplace.”     
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Office of Commissioner Mike O’Rielly: (202) 418-2300
Twitter: @mikeofcc
www.fcc.gov/leadership/michael-orielly
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes 
official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).