US Agency Set to Vote on Restoring Net Neutrality Rules

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission is set to make a historic decision on Thursday regarding the reinstatement of net neutrality rules and the assumption of new regulatory oversight of broadband internet. This move comes after the rules were rescinded under former President Donald Trump’s administration.

The commission previously voted 3-2 in October to advance the proposal to reinstate open internet rules adopted in 2015 and re-establish the commission’s authority over broadband internet. The final approval is expected to be granted on Thursday.

Net neutrality is a principle that advocates for equal access to all content and applications on the internet, without favoritism or blocking of specific products or websites. FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the importance of having national net neutrality rules to ensure a fast, open, and fair internet.

President Joe Biden has been a strong supporter of reinstating these rules, signing an executive order in July 2021 to encourage the FCC to do so. However, Democrats faced obstacles during the Trump administration, which argued that net neutrality rules were unnecessary and hindered innovation.

Industry stakeholders have differing opinions on the matter, with some supporting the reinstatement of net neutrality rules to preserve open access to the internet, while others believe it is unnecessary and counterproductive. Despite the repeal in 2017, several states have implemented their own net neutrality laws, leading to a patchwork of regulations across the country.

The upcoming FCC vote will have far-reaching implications for the future of internet regulation in the United States, with stakeholders on both sides closely watching the outcome.