Monday, June 11, 2007

What is Net Neutrality?

I just made my voice heard on the net neutrality issue. IF you value the Internet, you should also.

"Net neutrality" is an issue that will shape the future of the Internet.

Save The Internet.

NetCompetition.org

Network neutrality is the principle that Internet users should be in control of what content they view and what applications they use on the Internet. The Internet has operated according to this neutrality principle since its earliest days. Indeed, it is this neutrality that has allowed many companies, including Google, to launch, grow, and innovate. Fundamentally, net neutrality is about equal access to the Internet. In our view, the broadband carriers should not be permitted to use their market power to discriminate against competing applications or content. Just as telephone companies are not permitted to tell consumers who they can call or what they can say, broadband carriers should not be allowed to use their market power to control activity online. Today, the neutrality of the Internet is at stake as the broadband carriers want Congress's permission to determine what content gets to you first and fastest. Put simply, this would fundamentally alter the openness of the Internet.

What is the Current Status of Net Neutrality?

Net neutrality is a major issue as the U.S. considers new telecommunications laws. The U.S. House of Representatives passed its telecommunications bill, H.R. 5252, in May, without adequate net neutrality protections. Now the fight has moved to U.S. Senate. On June 28, the Senate Commerce Committee passed its own telecom bill, S. 2686. While an amendment to the bill that would have added meaningful net neutrality safeguards failed 11-11, this tie vote marks a significant political victory and gives the effort new momentum. The debate now shifts to the full Senate, where advocates will be working to get strong net neutrality language is any bill that the Senate considers.

What is your opinion?

1 comment:

  1. Hi Bob,

    I have just stumbled upon the "net neutrality" issue a few days ago--a little ashamed that I've been unaware of the issue for this long.

    From the information I have read so far, I am pro net neutrality.

    I am interested, however, in finding literature on the cost of future upgrades to the network, the necessity of these upgrades, and the options for payment.

    Any recommendations?

    I am also interested to learn of any Richmond groups that are working to spread local awareness on this issue; we, of course, cannot depend on mainstream media to inform the public as they are--sadly like our government--entangled in corporate interest.

    ReplyDelete