FCC Initiates Rule-Making Process on Net Neutrality

Authored by Mark Hefflinger on October 22, 2009 - 10:26am.

Washington - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Thursday initiated a rule-making process intended to "codify and supplement existing Internet openness principles." The most contentious of these guidelines relates to "Net neutrality," which would oblige ISPs not to give preference to the Internet traffic of one company or individual over another.

The guidelines carve out exceptions to open Internet principles for cases such as child pornography, copyright-infringing content, and emergency communications, and provide ISPs room to engage in "reasonable network management."

When polled by CNET, broadband providers AT&T, Verizon and Comcast said they do not believe new regulations are necessary.

"As we engage in this process, we remain concerned that the unintended consequences of regulation could bring substantial harm to consumers and the ability of the Internet sector to innovate, contribute to economic growth and productivity, create new jobs, and deliver social benefits to our nation." Tom Tauke, executive vice president of public affairs for Verizon, told CNET.

Following the FCC's initiation of a rule-making process, a 120-day period follows during which time it will accept public comments on the proposal, before additional internal debate and an eventual vote by the commissioners.

http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-294159A1.pdf