On May 15th the FCC Commissioners narrowly voted to approve a framework for rules that would create an Internet fast lane, while trying to patch up the loopholes that would make that fast lane possible. The proposal from FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler would ban broadband providers from blocking or slowing down websites, but leaves the door open for them to strike deals with content companies for preferential treatment, or fast lanes to customers. The Democrat-majority FCC voted 3-2 along party lines to open the proposal to public comment for 120 days, with an eye toward voting on final rules later this year. However, the timing of actual rules will depend on what the agency decides to do after the four-month comment period expires. Frankly, we don’t understand why there are objections for content providers and consumers paying more for higher speed delivery of broadband Internet content. Doesn’t every ISP charge more for higher speed Internet access? Don’t pay TV providers charge more for premium content with tiered service offerings? And an extra charge for HBO, Showtime, STARZ, Cinemax, etc? The FCC is proposing that it should use the authority that it has under Section 706 of the 1996 Telecommunications Act to […]
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