Paul Ryan on Internet Freedom and Security

Summary

Congressman Ryan's record on internet freedom is mixed. In January of 2012, he released a statement noting that he was concerned with the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and would oppose it. He stated that the law could set a bad precedence. However, in April of 2012 Congressman Ryan voted in favor of the Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act of 2011, otherwise known as CISPA.

Concern over SOPA

In January of 2012, Congressman Ryan issued a press statement noting his concern that the SOPA legislaiton could set a dangerous precedent.

Congressman Paul Ryan Voices Concerns with H.R. 3261

January 9, 2012
WASHINGTON - Wisconsin’s First District Congressman Paul Ryan released the following statement regarding H.R. 3261, the Stop Online Piracy Act:

"The internet is one of the most magnificent expressions of freedom and free enterprise in history. It should stay that way. While H.R. 3261, the Stop Online Piracy Act, attempts to address a legitimate problem, I believe it creates the precedent and possibility for undue regulation, censorship and legal abuse. I do not support H.R. 3261 in its current form and will oppose the legislation should it come before the full House." 

Voting Record

CISPA

In April of 2012, the House voted to pass the Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act of 2011 or CISPA. Passing with the support of mostly Republicans, the legislation calls for the establishment of information sharing between technical companies and the federal government. It exempts those technical companies from prosecution and lawsuits even if sharing that information is a violation of their contracts with their customers whose data they are sharing. Paul Ryan voted in favor of CISPA.

Sponsored and Cosponsored Legislation

This representative has not been identified as sponsoring or cosponsoring significant legislation related to this title.

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