Net neutrality restored as FCC votes to regulate internet providers
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The FCC on Thursday restored “net neutrality” rules that prevent broadband internet providers such as Comcast and AT&T from favoring some sites and apps over others.
The move effectively reinstates a net neutrality order the commission first issued in 2015 during the Obama administration; under then-President Donald Trump, the FCC subsequently repealed those rules in 2017.
Net neutrality is the principle that providers of internet service should treat all traffic equally. The rules, for instance, ban practices that throttle or block certain sites or apps, or that offer higher speeds to customers willing to pay extra.
“In our post-pandemic world, we know that broadband is a necessity, not a luxury,” FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement ahead of the vote.
The telecommunications industry opposed the reintroduction of the rules, as it has before, declaring it an example of unnecessary government interference in business decisions.
The measure passed on a 3-2 vote split by party lines, with Democratic commissioners in favor and Republicans opposed.
Related articles
Lafrenière continuing his breakthrough season as a solid contributor for Rangers in NHL playoffs
After a breakthrough regular season, Alexis Lafrenière has continued to be a solid contributor for t2024-05-21Hannah Waddingham reflects on end of Ted Lasso and friendship with Jason Sudeikis
Hannah Waddingham raved about her close friendship with Ted Lasso costar, Jason Sudeikis, while refl2024-05-21Attack blamed on IS militants kills 22 pro
BEIRUT (AP) — An attack on pro-government fighters by suspected members of the Islamic State group i2024-05-21Paige Spiranac says Masters viewing figures plunged 20% because 'fans are turned off' by LIV
Viewership of The Masters' final round on Sunday reportedly fell 20 percent from last year- and golf2024-05-21Storms damage homes in Oklahoma and Kansas. But in Houston, most power is restored
WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Fast-moving storms with strong winds, large hail and apparent tornadoes swept O2024-05-21Chinese Grand Prix could deliver drama to F1 and slow Verstappen's victory march
SHANGHAI (AP) — The Chinese Grand Prix could deliver some much-needed drama to Formula One, meaning2024-05-21
atest comment