What the F.C.C’s Net Neutrality Decision Really Means

Jai Primer

Recently, there has been a lot of controversy regarding the issue of net neutrality. Many people don’t even know what net neutrality is and how it affects them, but it is an important, wide-reaching concept. First, net neutrality is the main principle that guides the internet. It basically establishes that the internet should be open and free, and internet service providers cannot block, speed-up, or slow-down certain content. In 2015, under the Obama administration, the Federal Communications Commission, the bureaucratic agency that is in charge of internet regulation, set net neutrality rules that prevented service providers like AT&T, Comcast, and Verizon from creating certain price controls. On Thursday, December 14, Ajit Pai, the F.C.C chairman was the tie-breaker in the vote to repeal net neutrality rules. This means that broadband providers now have the ability to block certain websites, and charge more for the use of others. This also means that the federal government will no longer treat high-speed internet delivery as a utility. Chairman Pai claimed that this decision will help consumers and promote competition, saying “broadband providers will have more incentive to build networks, especially to underserved areas.” Of course, Mr. Pai was appointed by President Trump in hopes of having a pro-business stance. This decision is in line with the Trump administration by being pro-business and supporting limited regulation. Many people are worried about the possible effects of this decision. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t mean that you will be paying $1.99 per Google search, but you may be paying a higher rate for faster internet speeds, especially if you use certain sites. People are also concerned that this could lead to censoring. Because broadband providers will now have the ability to block certain sites, it also gives them the potential to block certain news sources or viewpoints they don’t agree with. This repeal also gives businesses the ability to push their own agendas, by promoting certain products or politicians that they support.

The Beacon asked a few Whitney Young students about their opinions on the subject. Ellie Lynch 18’ said that she is “disappointed in the government representation of the American people.” Ally Mitola 18’ added that “getting rid of net neutrality will only benefit the internet service providers and not the general population.” Many different organizations including Public Knowledge, The National Hispanic Media Coalition, and a group of states agree and have already threatened to file a suit and hopefully secure an injunction. The Beacon will continue to follow this story in the coming months.

 

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