“The Republican head of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission unveiled plans on Tuesday to repeal landmark 2015 rules that prohibited internet service providers from impeding consumer access to web content in a move that promises to recast the digital landscape.
The commission will vote at a Dec. 14meeting on his plan to rescind the so-called net neutrality rules that treated internet service providers like public utilities.
These rules barred broadband providers from blocking or slowing down access to content or charging consumers more for certain content. They were intended to ensure a free and open internet, give consumers equal access to web content and prevent broadband service providers from favoring their own content.
The impending action marks a victory for big ‘internet service providers’ (ISPs) such as AT&T, Comcast Corp and Verizon that opposed the rules and gives them sweeping powers to decide what web content consumers can get and at what price.
A major concern raised by consumer advocates is that ISPs could block or slow traffic to websites or services of their choosing, playing an outsized role in what users can and cannot access. Providers could also give preferential treatment to their own content or websites that pay extra fees, consumer advocates said.
ISPs could impede video streaming services and consumers' ability to make free or inexpensive phone calls over the internet, advocates said.
The nonprofit Consumers Union said a repeal could lead to higher consumer prices for existing internet access and speeds.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-internet-exclusive/fcc-chief-plans-to-ditch-u-s-net-neutrality-rules-idUSKBN1DL21A
What is net neutrality?:
http://elaw.guide/net-neutrality-for-dummies/
Take action:
https://www.savetheinternet.com/action/topic/internet-freedom
https://www.freepress.net/?akid=a47695229.11280624.8OkI22&rd=1&source=conf&t=1
