US Government Aims to Restore Net Neutrality Rules

The US government is taking steps to reinstate net neutrality rules, targeting high-speed internet providers like AT&T, Comcast, and Verizon.

This move aims to revive the principles of net neutrality for the broadband industry, sparking a renewed debate about the internet’s future.

Reclassification of Internet Service as “Essential Telecommunications”

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), under the leadership of Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, is proposing rules that would classify internet service—both wired and mobile—as “essential telecommunications.” This classification would be similar to traditional telephone services. These rules would prohibit internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking or slowing down access to websites and online content.

Preventing Selective Speeding and Fast Lanes

In addition to blocking and throttling restrictions, the draft rules aim to prevent ISPs from selectively speeding up service for favored websites or those willing to pay extra fees. This measure is designed to prevent the creation of “fast lanes” on the internet, which could give certain websites a paid advantage over others.

Restoring Obama-Era Regulations

The FCC’s proposal seeks to restore the net neutrality regulations put in place during the Obama administration. These regulations were rolled back by the FCC under Republican leadership during the Trump administration.

Industry Pushback Expected

Internet providers are expected to strongly oppose these proposed rules. They have a history of challenging net neutrality regulations in court.

Chairwoman Rosenworcel argues that these rules will enable the FCC to address a range of consumer issues, including spam robotexts, internet outages, digital privacy, and high-speed internet access. Reclassifying ISPs as essential telecommunications entities under Title II of the FCC’s congressional charter would provide the FCC with clearer authority to adopt future rules related to network policies and cybersecurity standards.

Impact on Broadband Expansion

Rosenworcel contends that the proposed rules could support the Biden administration’s goal of expanding fast and affordable broadband coverage across the country by granting ISPs rights to place their equipment on telephone poles.

The FCC plans to vote on the draft rules on October 19, initiating a period for public feedback. If approved, this proposal could lead to a renewed net neutrality framework, addressing concerns about ISPs potentially distorting the free flow of information on the internet.

Potential Legal Challenges and Industry Opposition

The proposal to reinstate net neutrality rules reflects the ongoing debate surrounding internet regulation, with net neutrality being a contentious issue for years. It also highlights the absence of federal legislation to establish a nationwide net neutrality standard, leading to changing rules with each political administration and a patchwork of state laws attempting to fill the void.

The industry is expected to push back against these rules, raising concerns about government overreach and the impact on private investment in broadband networks. Legal challenges and industry opposition could be significant hurdles in implementing these regulations.

The FCC’s move to reinstate net neutrality rules is poised to reignite a long-standing and contentious debate over the regulation of the internet. This proposal has the potential to reshape the landscape of internet services, affecting both consumers and internet providers. Public feedback and potential legal battles will play a significant role in determining the outcome of these rules.