Problem:
Net neutrality keeps the Internet free and open, preventing Internet Service Providers (ISPs) from picking and choosing certain content for their customers to see over others. However, there has been much debate over the subject of enforced FCC regulations on ISPs through Title I and II. Both Title I and Title II place restrictions on ISP to prevent consumer manipulation. Internet service providers argue that the restrictions placed by the FCC are too severe and unnecessary, while supporters of net neutrality advocate for their importance. This report will investigate the matter, determine the amount of responsibility the FCC has in resolving it, and deliver appropriate recommendations for the good of the government agency.
Background:
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In light of this new medium that was rapidly integrating itself in the lives of millions of Americans, the FCC faced pressure to determine what if any regulations should be placed on this new service. In 2005, the FCC classified Internet broadband access under Title I of the Communications Act of 1934. This meant that Internet service providers such as Comcast, and Time Warner would be subjected to less regulations than other telecommunication services enforced under Title II. In 2015, after facing backlash from annoyed customers tired of ISPs manipulating what content they had access to, the FCC reclassified broadband under Title II. This ultimately increased the restraints on ISPs. These restraints included preventing Internet “discrimination” by blocking or slowing down certain content or providing “special fast lanes” to higher paying companies (Granados). Under the administration of our current president, the FCC is facing pressure to deregulate net neutrality (Lohr). The agency must now determine what if any responsibility lies with the FCC to determine the extent of power ISPs have to influence the content their customers have access