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Net Neutrality Bill Introduced in Congress

Senators Olympia Snowe (R-Maine) and Byron Dorgan (D-ND) introduced the Internet Freedom Preservation Act, intended to ensure all content is treated equally and fairly on the Internet, as well as, requiring service providers to offer consumers broadband Internet access without bundling it with other services including: telephone, cable and VoIP. If passed, the law will prohibit broadband internet providers from blocking, degrading or prioritizing services.

Network neutrality has been an especially contentious issue in the United States. Although US law doesn`t require telecommunication companies implement network neutrality, in effect, do not offer different rates to internet consumers based on content or service type, so that network neutrality is kept de facto. Yet many advocates of network neutrality are advocating such laws be passed. 5 unsuccessful attempts have been made at have bills with certain network neutrality provisions passed by Congress. In each case, these bills would also have prohibited Internet Service Providers from offering service plans priced according to the user`s choice of Quality of Service levels.

"What has made the Internet such a remarkable success is the ability of people everywhere to experience a world of their own choosing on their own terms," Senator Snowe said in a statement issued as the new net neutrality bill was filed. "This freedom has fostered an unprecedented exchange of information and ideas that has led to an explosion in consumer choice, the creation of new businesses, and the spread of democratic ideals around the globe."