Debate intensifies over net neutrality as FCC nears decision

Congressional Republicans released its draft net neutrality legislation that would block the Federal Communications Commission from regulating the broadband industry. The legislation bans the FCC from reclassifying broadband as a common carrier service rendering them powerless in regulating broadband. (Ars Technica, January 16, 2015, by Jon Brodkin)

Sprint surprised the world of Internet providers by announcing it was breaking ranks and supporting reclassification of broadband as a common carrier service. Verizon, AT&T and Comcast are strongly against the reclassification arguing that it would saddle the industry with stifling regulations. (Nextgov, January 20, 2015, by Brendan Sasso of the National Journal)

Larry Downes in the The Washington Post, January 20, 2015, lists eight reasons for favoring the Republicans legislation, “it grants clear authority;” “avoids legal limbo;” “checks the power of future FCC chairmen;” “adds consumer protections well beyond the earlier FCC efforts;” “flexible enforcement;” “recognizes the Internet as a global network;” “preserves a role for the Federal Trade Commission;” and “ends the endless debate.”