FCC chairman sets out to repeal 'net neutrality' rules
WASHINGTON — Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai is following through on his pledge to repeal 2015 regulations designed to ensure that internet service providers treat all online content and apps equally.
The concept, known as net neutrality, imposed utility-style regulation on ISPs such as Comcast, AT&T and Verizon to prevent them from favoring their own digital services over their rivals.
Pai believes the net neutrality rules adopted during the Obama administration discourages the ISPs from making investments in their network to provide even better and faster online access.
He distributed his alternative plan to other FCC commissioners Tuesday in preparation for a Dec. 14 vote on the proposal. Pai promised to release his entire proposal Wednesday.
Pai's attack on net neutrality has triggered protests from consumer groups and internet companies.
Senator Tammy Baldwin issued the following statement on the FCC's plan to repeal Net Neutrality:
"Rolling back net neutrality rules will allow internet service providers to create an uneven playing field in the online marketplace for services and ideas. We must work to ensure that the internet does not become a two-tiered system, with fast lanes for some and slow lanes for others. Net neutrality is a principle that is at the heart of an accessible and free internet, and I believe we need to protect innovators, entrepreneurs and consumers and keep the internet open for everyone."