UNITED STATES - This week marked a huge win for net neutrality supporters, but more work still needs to be done to ensure an open and equal internet for everyone.
On February 4, FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler proposed his intent to regulate the Internet as a utility in a Wired op-ed piece, declaring:
“I am proposing that the FCC use its Title II authority to implement and enforce open internet protections.
“Using this authority, I am submitting to my colleagues the strongest open internet protections ever proposed by the FCC. These enforceable, bright-line rules will ban paid prioritization, and the blocking and throttling of lawful content and services. I propose to fully apply – for the first time ever – those bright-line rules to mobile broadband. My proposal assures the rights of internet user to go where they want, when they want, and the rights of innovators to introduce new products without asking anyone’s permission.”
Here’s why you should care about this monumental move:
What is Net Neutrality?
Net neutrality ensures that websites, videos, and other content load at approximately the same speed for everyone. This concept ensures that your internet service provider (ISP) cannot deliberately slow down or block your connection to a website because of a backdoor deal they struck with a content provider.
“Strongest Open Internet Protections Ever…”
Under Chairman Wheeler’s proposal, the FCC would treat ISPs like telecommunications companies and regulate how they manage traffic on their networks. Under these rules, the FCC can regulate broadband providers who may attempt to prevent you from binge watching your favorite shows on Netflix or publishing video content on YouTube, for example.
Last fall, President Obama announced his support for these rules, asking Wheeler to regulate ISPs under Title II of the Communications Act.
Consequences
The FCC is expected to vote on Wheeler’s proposal on February 26. Until then, we can only speculate how these rules will change how we experience the Internet. Wall Street Journal (WSJ) claims that there won’t be any short-term changes, as these new rules would “largely codify what has been voluntary practice for the broadband industry.”
WSJ adds, “Down the road, however, they could make it easier for companies to offer bandwidth-hungry services such as online video-streaming without having to first seek approval or enter into business arrangements with the broadband providers.”
While it’s still unclear whether the proposal will be approved, this issue may not be fully resolved for years to come.
Let’s follow in the footsteps of companies like Google, Facebook, Amazon, Twitter, Ebay, and Yahoo, and continue showing our support for net neutrality.
For more information on net neutrality, you can visit the following websites…
