Committee votes to prevent U.N. Internet regulation

As expected, the House Energy and Commerce Committee on Wednesday unanimously approved a resolution aimed at preventing any efforts to hand the United Nations more power to oversee the Internet.

Rep. Mary Bono Mack, R-Calif., championed the resolution, which was sparked by concerns that some countries may try to use international telecommunications negotiations in December to increase the role that the U.N. plays in global Internet governance.

"Despite denials, the Russians and Chinese are working quietly behind the scenes - and have been for years - to exert control over Web content and infrastructure," Bono Mack said. "This could lead to human rights abuses in the future and effectively put a spigot on the free flow of information. We can't let that happen."

The U.N. agency involved with telecommunication denies there are any efforts to increase Internet regulation, but U.S. officials aren't taking any chances.

The resolution enjoys wide support with at least 58 cosponsors, including 46 on the Energy and Commerce Committee. Additionally, the Obama administration has said it is working hard to prevent any increased U.N. Internet regulation.

The resolution was praised by many industry groups, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which called on U.S. officials to maintain an "unequivocal" policy of supporting "multistakeholder" processes that include businesses, and non-governmental groups in addition to governments.