Senators Weigh In On FCC's Net Neutrality Plan
May 10, 2014, 9:30 AM by Eric M. Zeman
Ten U.S. Senators have requested that Tom Wheeler, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, strike from his proposed net neutrality rules those that would allow for the creation of a fast lane. The FCC is prepared to vote on the proposal on May 15, despite the outcry from the public, from more than 100 businesses, and even two FCC commissioners. The senators write, "Changing the rules - to let broadband internet service providers (ISPs) demand payment from web site and app developers - would eradicate net neutrality, not preserve it. Any time one group of packets is favored on an IP network the rest of the traffic is, by definition, discriminated against. We worry that the NPRM language would permit broadband providers to collect new tolls from innovators, entrepreneurs, and all manner of speakers on the internet." Some of the signees include Sens. Ron Wyden, Al Franken, Chuck Schumer, Elizabeth Warran, and Kirsten Gillibrand.