Net Neutrality Wins On 3-2 Vote – Internet Users Can Rejoice

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted Thursday to approve strong net neutrality rules defying vocal, months-long opposition by telecom and cable companies and Republicans on Capitol Hill. The new rules passed by a vote of 3-2 with the Commission’s 3 Democratic appointees voting yes. The Commission’s 2 Republican-appointed members both voted no.  The net neutrality rules prevent Internet providers—including cellular carriers—from blocking or throttling traffic or giving priority to Web services in exchange for payment.

The Commission’s 3 Democrats voted yes.  The 2 Republicans voted no 

Democratic Commissioners Jessica Rosenworcel and Mignon Clyburn joined Chairman Tom Wheeler to approve a rule that reclassifies consumer broadband as a utility under Title II of the Communications Act. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) — both landline and wireless — will now be subject to stringent oversight on how they handle data that flows over their networks. The regulation will prevent the companies that operate the Internet's infrastructure from striking deals to give preferential treatment to content providers. For example, these rules prevent Netflix from paying Comcast for better access to customers.

Well said – I couldn’t agree more!

The vote also reclassifies broadband Internet under Title II of the Communications Act, meaning the companies will be now regulated in a manner similar to utilities like power. Companies that fall under this area will not be subject to certain parts of Title II regulation, such as price controls and forced sharing of infrastructure.

Under the Republican plan – your Internet service would look like this!

Republican commissioner Ajit Pai attacked the vote calling the decision an "about-face" and stoked conservative fears by claiming "we are flip-flopping for one reason and one reason only: President Obama told us to do so."   Those gathered in one FCC viewing room gasped and burst into laughter upon hearing Pai's remark.  Barack Obama IS the President and he has a perfect right to speak out in favour of consumers. That’s what Presidents do. Get over it Republicans. Barack Obama was elected President not just once but twice. 

What is net neutrality and how does it affect you?

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