Reviving Net Neutrality: Protecting an Open Internet

During the Trump administration, these net neutrality rules were dismantled, and now, broadband companies, such as Comcast or Charter Communications, may oppose the efforts to reinstate them. Jonathan Spalter, CEO of USTelecom, an industry group representing telecommunications companies, argues that these providers stand for an open internet while labeling the proposal a "regulatory power grab."

However, the FCC's decision marks only the initial step in this process, as public comments on the proposals will be sought before finalizing any regulations. FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel emphasizes the need for tighter government oversight, comparing internet service to vital utilities like water, electricity, and telephone infrastructure. She aims to ensure that the internet remains "fast, open, and fair," addressing the absence of an expert agency that has failed to keep up with the transformative role of the internet in our lives.

On the other hand, Republican FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr expresses concerns about granting the government too much control over the internet. He fears that this plan could lead to unwanted government intervention and regulation.

Despite the opposing views, the FCC's decision highlights the significance of net neutrality in preserving an open internet that benefits all users. The outcome of this ongoing debate will have far-reaching implications for the future of online communication and access to information.

The Fight for Net Neutrality Continues

In a recent speech at the National Press Club, Jessica Rosenworcel expressed her determination to reinstate the net-neutrality rules that were put in place during the Obama era in 2015. These regulations aimed to prevent internet providers from engaging in practices such as blocking content from platforms like Google and Netflix, slowing down connection speeds, or creating fast lanes that prioritize certain internet content over others through paid prioritization.

Unfortunately, the Trump administration repealed these rules in 2017, arguing that they imposed unnecessary regulations on the broadband market. Despite this setback, Rosenworcel remains steadfast in her commitment to bring back these net-neutrality regulations.

If reinstated, the policy change would impose utility-like regulations on internet service providers, which is expected to result in increased costs for these companies. Michael Powell, president of the NCTA—the Internet & Television Association, which represents major cable companies like Comcast and Charter Communications—considers the FCC's proposed regulations to be a "monumental change in how the internet will be regulated" and anticipates a profound impact on how it operates in the future.

One of the key concerns within the industry is how these regulations will affect rates charged by internet companies. Rosenworcel clarifies that the FCC does not plan to directly regulate rates but could intervene if it deems them unreasonable.

In addition to this ongoing battle over net neutrality, the Biden administration is actively working towards expanding internet connectivity throughout the country. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, a bipartisan legislation passed in 2021, allocated $65 billion to extend affordable high-speed internet access to underserved communities nationwide.

The fight for net neutrality continues, with proponents like Rosenworcel and the Biden administration advocating for a free and open internet while facing opposition from industry representatives concerned about the financial implications of these regulations.