Net-Neutrality

The FCC is trying to pass regulation regarding net-neutrality which will keep the internet free, accessible, and open to all users. What private sectors and high-yielding companies want to do is limit the sites that users can access and the loading time of sites to sway individuals away from certain sites. The FCC has taken a strong stance against this.

Chairman Julius Genachowski stated, "The FCC must be a smart cop on the beat pressuring a free and open internet. It is vital that the internet continue to be an engine of innovation, economic growth, competition, and democratic engagement."

Internet companies such as Google are also concerned about this potential threat against net-neutrality. Google VP Vinton Cerf said, "Allowing a handful of broadband carriers to determine what people see and do online would fundamentally undermine the features that have made the internet such a success."

To limit internet access by slowing down the loading time of sites, forcing users to pay additional fees to read information on certain websites, and to promote a "class system" of internet users, it provides an argument against the First Amendment. To limit internet access because of an individual's ability to pay the additional fees limits their ability to free speech, access to the media and press, as well as their personal interests.

President Obama said on May 29th that he was "firmly committed" to the neutrality clause. He was also quoted saying, "we can keep the internet as it should be; open and free." On the opposing side, the Bush's Administration said these new rules weren't needed and refused to adopt a Democratic net-neutrality proposal in '06.

It is very important to protect the fundamental rights of every American. Passing legislation for net-neutrality helps to promote the First Amendment by making sure all internet users are capable of viewing and accessing all of the same websites regardless of all other circumstances.

All information taken from Bloomberg.Com