Net neutrality has been a huge debate for quite some time, but everything could soon be laid to rest if Democrat senators get their way. The plan is to create a bill that would force the FCC to treat broadband as utility, which would comprehensively ban Internet fast lanes.
The "Online Competition and Consumer Choice Act" would forbid the broadband providers from entering an agreement with another company where the broadband provider would provide extra network traffic to this company for a price.
It would also block Internet providers from giving priority to their own content over that of a competing content. However, this bill only affects last-mile Internet traffic, so the deal Netflix made with Verizon and Comcast will be affected. The Internet will no longer have to watch Netflix clash with Comcast on a regular basis on why it has to pay to drive in the fast lane.
"Americans are speaking loud and clear," says Senate Judiciary Committee chair Patrick Leahy. "They want an Internet that is a platform for free expression and innovation, where the best ideas and services can reach consumers based on merit rather than based on a financial relationship with a broadband provider."
The bill will have some naysayers as the Republicans have sponsored legislation that attempt to limit the FCC's authority over what Internet service providers do. This would make the bill difficult to pass as it requires the Republicans would likely vote against it.
The bill would not give the FCC any additional powers to enforce net neutrality issues as some might think. However, if passed, the bill would be a clear message that the United States Congress wants the FCC to finally enforce net neutrality.
"A free and open Internet is essential for consumers," says Rep. Doris Matsui. "Our country cannot afford pay-for-play schemes that divide our Internet into tiers based on who has the deepest pockets."
It should be interesting to see how this new battle turns out, as it is very important to the future of the open Internet, or what is left of it.
