FCC Vote Restores Net Neutrality Rules
The Facts
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Thursday voted 3-2 along political-party lines (with Democrats in favor) to restore net neutrality — the policy that prohibits internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking or slowing traffic, or charging more to deliver content from certain sources.
Previously, the commission in October voted 3-2 to advance this proposal, which also gives the FCC oversight of broadband internet. These rules had been previously rescinded under Republican Pres. Donald Trump.
The Spin
Democratic narrative
This decision should be celebrated from coast to coast. Net neutrality is popular and desperately needed. American people across the country and from all walks of life rely on internet service and shouldn't be subject to the whims of ISPs controlling speeds and access.
Republican narrative
This is an unnecessary power grab by the government that will cause unexpected harm to customers in the future. The people cheering this decision were the ones howling over the end of internet neutrality seven years ago — but they were crying wolf. Luckily, the courts will likely overrule the FCC.
