Net Neutrality
Candlefocus EditorNet neutrality policies have been under discussion for many years, with discussion primarily focusing on issues such as discriminatory blocking of online content or services by ISPs, as well as granting of preferential internet speeds to particular business or content providers in return for payment. Under US net neutrality laws, enacted by the Obama administration in 2015, ISPs were required to treat all internet traffic equally, regardless of content or user.
In 2018, the Trump administration repealed the Obama-era net neutrality laws, leading to fears of heightened censorship, corporate control and the stifling of innovation and competition on the internet. In July 2022, the Net Neutrality and Broadband Justice Act was introduced to Congress, representing a renewed effort to protect the free and open internet. This bipartisan bill seeks to restore the net neutrality regulations repealed in 2018 and to create a more just broadband future for everyone in the United States.
Advocates of net neutrality believe that it is necessary to maintain a level playing field for businesses on the web. By ensuring that all data is treated equally, net neutrality supports consumer choice, prevents large companies from dominating online services, and protects against discrimination online.
Critics of net neutrality, however, see it as a form of government overreach, arguing that it is anti-free market, increases the cost of services, and may lead to government censorship of the internet.
At this point, only time will tell if the Net Neutrality and Broadband Justice Act will be successful; however, one thing is clear: network neutrality is incredibly important, as it ensures freedom of expression, a fair market online, and the ability to make choices as a consumer.