Bilgesu Erdem
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently voted in favor of reviving the open internet protections known as net neutrality. This marks a significant shift in direction since these protections were rescinded during the Trump administration. The principle underlying net neutrality is that broadband providers should offer equal access to all online content, devoid of any preference, throttling, or blocking of particular traffic.
Historical Context
Net neutrality was initially instituted in 2015 during the Obama administration. However, the protections were rapidly revoked by the FCC two years later under the Trump administration. The ongoing debate over net neutrality has remained divisive, with distinct party lines shaping the discourse. While the Obama-era regulations found favor among Democrats, they were often criticized by Republicans for overstepping bounds. Similarly, telecommunication companies have voiced concerns that net neutrality could usher in further regulations and potentially influence broadband pricing structures.
The Modern Necessity of Internet Access
The push to reconsider net neutrality has gained momentum, particularly due to the ongoing global pandemic. The necessity for dependable broadband became all the more evident during lockdowns as people worldwide relied on the internet for education, work, and more. FCC Chairwoman, Jessica Rosenworcel, underscored the importance of modernizing regulations to reflect this new reality. She highlighted that broadband access has become an integral part of daily life and thus requires appropriate oversight.
Divided Perspectives
Despite the move to restore net neutrality, opposition remains. Critics argue that the internet has thrived without the need for such regulations. Brendan Carr, a Republican commissioner at the FCC, expressed concerns over the potential for the FCC to overreach and influence various aspects of internet functionality. On a similar note, the trade group USTelecom, representing giants like AT&T and Verizon, cautioned against potential overlaps in the areas of cybersecurity and national security linked to broadband.
Furthermore, GOP lawmakers have also voiced their concerns, terming the revival of net neutrality as a โsolution in search of a problem.โ
The FCC plans to gather public feedback on the proposed regulation, post which they’ll integrate the feedback into a final draft. A decisive vote to enact the regulation is anticipated in early 2024. However, the future of net neutrality remains uncertain, as legal challenges from the telecom sector loom large, potentially further delaying the implementation.
With the revival of net neutrality on the horizon, both consumers and businesses eagerly await the final outcome. While some argue for the open internet as a cornerstone of modern society, others caution against excessive regulation. As the FCC navigates this contentious terrain, the world watches closely, anticipating the future shape of the digital landscape.
