“This agency, the nation’s premier communications authority, believes that every consumer deserves fast, open and fair access to the Internet,” FCC Acting Chair Jessica Rosenworcel said before the vote to restore the rules.
The rules restore government oversight of Internet service providers, relegating broadband to utilities regulated like water and cellphone companies.
The commission voted three to two to restore the 2015 Open Internet rules.
“This net neutrality policy ensures that you can go where you want and do what you want on the Internet without your broadband provider making the decisions for you,” Mr Rosenworcel added.
“They make it clear that your broadband provider should not have the right to block websites, slow down services or censor internet content,” she said.
Under President Trump, the FCC dropped the order after a politically charged debate.
Net neutrality advocates say the rules, which have been challenged in court, have prevented powerful Internet service providers like Comcast and AT&T from harming competitors.
These rules were introduced to prevent “two-speed” internet. They ensure that Internet service providers treat all Internet traffic equally and do not block or harm competitors.
But others fear the rules seek to classify ISPs as utilities, which could discourage investment in the fast-growing sector.
Under Trump, the FCC said the FCC’s changed approach to net neutrality is a return to looser regulation.
Tags: Communications Regulatory Authority restoring net neutrality rules
