DC Appeals Rules FCC Can Regulate Internet As Utility, Preserve Net Neutrality

In a huge win for consumers, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled that the FCC can regulate broadband as a utility. This decision means that net neutrality can be enforced by the FCC.  Broadband providers had wanted to be able to block or slow the delivery of internet content to consumers as well as give preference to other content. In a 2-1 decision, the appeals court ruled that the FCC was well within its authority when it developed these rules. Needless to say, the broadband industry immediately indicated it would appeal this decision to the Supreme Court. But, with the current 4-4 liberal/conservative split on the court, it is hard to see this decision being overridden.

Being able to regulate the internet as utility not only protects net neutrality but it may also make it easier to ensure that broadband access is available to all Americans. And that’s good news for all of us.