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John,
As someone who supports net neutrality, we wanted to give you an update on where things stand, and let you know about a key moment tomorrow.
As you likely know, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted in April 2024 to restore net neutrality protections.1 This came after millions of people like you spoke out to demand the agency reinstate the rules that Ajit Pai repealed in 2017. By reclassifying broadband access, the FCC would have gained some regulatory authority over the telecom industry, which has a long history of putting profit over people.2 In an age where internet access is a necessity and not a luxury, securing some basic oversight of the industry that controls internet access felt like a real victory. (And a victory shared by many–net neutrality is a hugely popular initiative across party lines.)
However, the victory was short-lived as the telecom industry dipped into their deep pockets and filed a lawsuit to block net neutrality rules.3 The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals granted the industry a “stay” against net neutrality rules going into effect while the case is ongoing. Oral arguments are scheduled for tomorrow (Happy Halloween?) and both sides will have a chance to argue their side.4 Unfortunately, the judges assigned to the case have indicated that they're likely to side with the telecom industry. The court has one year after oral arguments to issue a decision. In the meantime, any number of things could happen–next week’s presidential election will no doubt have a major impact.
While there isn’t much opportunity for grassroots activism around tomorrow’s oral arguments, you can always visit Battle for the Net5 to send a comment to your local Congressperson and let them know that they should support net neutrality. If telecom-friendly judges do strike down the rules, it will become more important than ever to get Congress on the public’s side on this issue.
We’ll continue following events as they unfold, and will jump into action when the moment is right. Stay tuned.
In solidarity,
Hally at Fight
P.S. If you value our ongoing work in the fight for net neutrality, can you make a one-time or monthly contribution? Every bit helps us fund our campaign work and keeps Team Internet fighting.
Donate
Footnotes:
Net neutrality is back: U.S. promises fast, safe and reliable internet for all: https://www.npr.org/2024/04/26/1247393656/net-neutrality-explained-fcc
Net Neutrality Violations: A History of Abuse: https://www.freepress.net/blog/net-neutrality-violations-history-abuse
Telecoms seek to block US reinstatement of net neutrality rules: https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/telecoms-seek-block-us-reinstatement-net-neutrality-rules-2024-06-05/
Court Orders ISPs, FCC to Argue Net Neutrality on Halloween: https://broadbandbreakfast.com/court-orders-isps-fcc-to-argue-net-neutrality-on-halloween
Battle for the Net: https://www.battleforthenet.com/
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