FCC Votes to Restore Net Neutrality Rules, Reclaiming Authority over Broadband Internet

In a significant move, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted on Thursday to advance a proposal that aims to reinstate net neutrality rules and assume new regulatory oversight of broadband internet. The commission voted 3-2 on a proposal to reinstate open internet rules adopted in 2015 and regain the commission's authority over broadband internet. These rules were rescinded under former President Donald Trump in 2017, allowing internet service providers to block or throttle traffic and offer paid fast lanes.

The FCC's decision comes after Democrats took majority control of the commission in October, marking the first time since President Joe Biden took office. In July 2021, Biden signed an executive order encouraging the FCC to reinstate net neutrality rules implemented under former President Barack Obama. Acting FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the importance of ensuring that the internet remains fast, open, and fair. The proposal is expected to face legal challenges, but it signifies a shift in the FCC's approach to internet regulation.

Republican FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr opposed the move, pointing out that broadband speeds in the U.S. have increased, prices have decreased, and competition has intensified since 2017. He argued that the plan would result in government control of the internet. The vote has received mixed reactions from industry groups. NCTA - The Internet & Television Association, representing major internet service providers, criticized the proposal, calling it a "monumental change" in how the internet will be regulated. On the other hand, Raza Panjwani, senior policy counsel of the Open Technology Institute, applauded the plan for addressing roadblocks to deploying broadband infrastructure and keeping Americans connected during public emergencies.

Despite the repeal of net neutrality rules in 2017, around a dozen states have implemented their own net neutrality laws or regulations. The FCC's latest decision indicates a move towards reinstating net neutrality regulations and treating high-speed internet as a utility. Net neutrality is a principle that advocates for equal access to the internet. It ensures that broadband consumers have unrestricted access to any website without interference from internet service providers.

The concept was first proposed over 15 years ago and has since become a highly partisan issue. During the Obama administration, net neutrality regulations were established but repealed in 2017 under Republican leadership. The FCC's vote to advance the proposal signifies a renewed commitment to protecting net neutrality and ensuring that internet access remains a necessity for daily life. The plan aims to provide regulatory oversight and prevent consumer harm while addressing security concerns. The FCC will gather public input before finalizing the plan and voting on it next year.