FCC’s Neutrality Regulation Express Sidetracked
James Gattuso /
The FCC’s plans for regulating the Internet through “neutrality” regulation—once considered on a fast track—was sidetracked once again yesterday as the agency announced a new round of public comments on possible regulation. It is one more twist in the drama that net neutrality has become, at least for those who see administrative procedure as exciting.
It’s a welcome twist, affording an opportunity to more fully consider some key dangers of regulation. At the same time, the delay underscores the difficulty that regulation supporters face in putting together a plan for controlling the Internet.
The agency had been expected to act this month to reclassify broadband Internet service as a “telecommunications” service, allowing it to regulate the industry. But that was before Google and Verizon—arguably the leading industry supporter and opponent, respectively, of neutrality—announced a compromise plan. The plan would allow for some regulation of Internet service providers but specifically exempt wireless service and “managed” services (such as Internet-based video services and phone services) from the rules. (more…)