In what could be great news for Cord Cutters the FCC plan to start reviewing the paid peering deals Netflix has with ISPs.
This would be a huge step in the FCC powers over the Internet. Giving the FCC control of what ISPs can charge from companies like Netflix. As expected Cable companies are pushing for no regulations of such deals. What has changed now is companies like Amazon and Netflix putting just as much money into pushing for regulations of these deals.
In order for the FCC to enforce these rules they would need to reclassify broadband providers as common carriers under Title II of the Communications Act. Well many have pushed for this there is a fear that doing so would give the US Government new and very powerful control of the internet.
Bloomburg reported: “With an oversight procedure, the FCC could order an Internet service provider to stop demanding unfair fees, or to improve its connection, said Harold Feld, senior vice president of the Washington-based policy group Public Knowledge.”
The real issue is getting Title II for internet access. Hopes are starting ti rise for Title II classification after a recent push from the White House for net neutrality.
Summary:
Cord cutters have long hoped for real Net Neutrality deal to allow open access to the internet for companies like Netflix. Some have feared that the FCC will start to regulate the internet in the same heavy handed way the regulate cable industry content.
No system is perfect it is clear something has to change. Hopefully the FCC follows through and puts some oversight into at least the peering deals with companies like Netflix.
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