In a 3-2 vote along party lines, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has restored net neutrality rules, effectively reclassifying broadband internet service as a Title II telecommunications service. This decision reverses the FCC’s 2017 repeal of net neutrality regulations, a move that sparked widespread public outcry and legal challenges.

Net neutrality prohibits internet service providers (ISPs) from throttling, blocking, or prioritizing specific content online. This ensures all internet traffic is treated equally, regardless of its source or destination. Proponents of net neutrality argue it fosters innovation and competition on the internet, while opponents claim it stifles investment in broadband infrastructure.

The new ruling gives the FCC the authority to:

• Prohibit ISPs from blocking or throttling lawful internet traffic.
• Prevent ISPs from creating “fast lanes” for content providers who pay a premium.
• Protect consumers’ ability to choose how they access the internet.

The decision is likely to face legal challenges from the broadband industry. However, internet rights advocates are celebrating the victory. Public Knowledge, a digital rights group, called it “a win for millions of Americans who depend on an open internet.”

The FCC will now begin the process of crafting new net neutrality rules. This includes defining specific prohibitions for ISPs and outlining enforcement mechanisms.

The reinstatement of net neutrality marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over internet regulation. It remains to be seen how the broadband industry will respond and whether the new rules will withstand legal scrutiny. However, today’s decision sends a clear message: the FCC is committed to protecting an open and accessible internet for all Americans.