The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced today that it will begin the process of bringing back the net neutrality rules that were removed in 2017. There will be an official vote to impose net neutrality on April 25, 2024.
“After the prior administration abdicated authority over broadband services, the FCC has been handcuffed from acting to fully secure broadband networks, protect consumer data, and ensure the internet remains fast, open, and fair,” FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement on Wednesday. “A return to the FCC’s overwhelmingly popular and court-approved standard of net neutrality will allow the agency to serve once again as a strong consumer advocate of an open internet.”
Recently the FCC announced a “Notice of Proposed Rulemaking” opens the process up to public comment and feedback. Rosenworcel said she would listen to all feedback and adjust as needed.
The rules, first introduced in 2015, designated Internet service providers as Title II companies, which are more akin to gas and electric companies, with heavier oversight. They made it through a legal challenge in court before the following administration ordered their dismantling (read the full history of net neutrality here).
The new take on the rules would be like the 2015 version and will probably be challenged in court again.
“The FCC’s proposal to reinstate Title II regulation of broadband is not only misguided—it is a missed opportunity,” said Grant Spellmeyer, CEO of ACA Connects, a trade group made up of smaller cable and Internet providers. “We should be working together to improve broadband access and adoption for all Americans, not relitigating the regulatory battles of the past.”
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