Court Blocks Rules Governing ISPs: Impact on Internet Regulations

The federal government’s rules to keep internet service providers (ISPs) from prioritizing data for companies that pay for the privilege were blocked by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit in Cincinnati, Ohio, this month.

Several ISPs challenged the notion that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) can classify ISPs as telecommunications services, which led to the review. This would put the businesses in the category of a public utility, which is then open for federal regulation.

During the decision to stop net neutrality, the court cited the FCC’s rules as “heavy-handed.”

Responses to the decision have been polarizing:

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) published, “Today’s ruling to overturn net neutrality will have a devastating effect on free speech online,” said Jenna Leventoff, ACLU’s senior policy counsel. “Internet rights are civil rights. It is imperative that Congress act now so that everyone can have access to a free and open internet.”

FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr said, “While the work to unwind the … admin’s regulatory overreach will continue, this is a good win.”

Learn more about net neutrality and the FCC’s report.

See Allconnect’s News and Research hubs for more broadband guides and information.

Written by:

Robin Layton

Senior Editor, Broadband Content

Robin Layton is a Senior Editor for Allconnect, dedicated to helping consumers navigate the often-complex world of internet service providers. With 30 years of experience in journalism and marketing, Robin empow… Read more

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Anine Sus

Editor I

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