Published reports say the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) plans to roll back Net Neutrality rules that were put in place by the Obama Administration.
Reports by Reuters and Bloomberg cite unnamed sources as saying the FCC will take the action at its December meeting. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai has been an outspoken critic of Net Neutrality, even before he was appointed to his post by President Trump.
The Net Neutrality regulations, put in place in 2015, prohibit major internet service providers (ISP) like AT&T, Verizon, and Comcast from favoring one type of content over others by providing lower rates and so-called “fast lanes.”
While ISPs have generally opposed Net Neutrality, it has been strongly defended by technology companies, content providers, and consumer groups, who argue that abolishing the rules will hamper users’ access and control of the internet.
Reaction
“In less than a month, and in defiance of the tens of millions of Americans who have spoken out for the free and open internet, Ajit Pai will move to kill Net Neutrality," Free Press CEO Craig Aaron said in a statement emailed to ConsumerAffairs. "It’s time to raise hell."
While the details aren't known, Aaron contends that the GOP-led FCC plans to undo "basic protections" that have been in place on the internet since the beginning. He called on content providers and ordinary consumers to make their voices heard.
“Any honest look at the facts proves that the Title II rules (classifying the internet as
