FCC to Vote on Restoring Net Neutrality: What You Need to Know

FCC to Vote on Restoring Net Neutrality Rules

On April 25th, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will hold a vote on a proposal to reinstate net neutrality rules. These rules, which were previously repealed in 2017 under a Trump-nominated chair, have been a topic of debate between Republicans and Democrats on the commission. While Republicans believed that removing the rules would foster innovation, Democrats argued that repealing them would lead to disruptive throttling of internet traffic. Although neither scenario has fully materialized, some attribute this to the presence of net neutrality rules in California and the looming possibility of their return at the federal level.

FCC Chair Pushes for Net Neutrality Restoration

Jessica Rosenworcel, the Democratic FCC Chair, is working to secure the necessary votes within the commission to restore net neutrality rules. In a statement on Wednesday, she emphasized the importance of the FCC’s role in protecting consumers and ensuring an open internet:

“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. 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.”

Addressing Common Critiques and Potential Benefits

During a background call with reporters, a senior FCC official addressed common critiques of net neutrality, clarifying that the proposal would not allow for rate regulation and reaffirming the agency’s lack of authority to regulate speech. The official also highlighted the potential real-world benefits of restoring net neutrality, such as granting the FCC greater oversight over internet outages, incorporating new cybersecurity standards into network policies, and protecting national security by preventing certain Chinese telecommunications firms from offering broadband services in the US.

Confidence in Legal Standing and Industry Criticism

Despite threats to executive branch agencies’ legal authorities, the FCC remains confident that new net neutrality rules can withstand legal challenges, given the past success of earlier iterations in court. However, the move has already drawn criticism from the broadband industry. Jonathan Spalter, president and CEO of USTelecom, argued that the FCC’s decision is “entirely counterproductive, unnecessary, and anti-consumer” at a time when the goal of providing all Americans with access to high-speed internet is within reach.

Next Steps

If the commissioners vote to approve the proposal, the reclassification and much of the rules will take effect 60 days after they are published in the federal register.