In 2015, MetroIBA successfully advocated for net neutrality, gaining the support of most of our federally elected officials (and ultimately the FCC). After recent events, again we’re encouraging MetroIBA members to publicly support Net Neutrality. Please make your voice heard.
What Happened:
The day before Thanksgiving, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Pai publicly shared his plan to dismantle network neutrality protections approved by the FCC in 2015 and affirmed by the federal appeals court in 2016. The new draft order is scheduled to be voted on by the five FCC commissioners on December 14.
Why It Matters:
Net neutrality is the principle that internet service providers (ISPs) must enable equal access to all legal content and applications regardless of the source and without favoring or blocking specific services or websites. Strong, enforceable rules are critical to the functioning of independent businesses which cannot afford to be relegated to “slow lanes” on the internet.
What You Can Do:
Here’s one quick and effective way to support net neutrality.
- On a computer, (not your phone!), go to: www.fcc.gov/ecfs/filings/express
- Enter (under “Proceeding”) the numbers 17-108
- In comments, say: I support Title 2 oversight of ISPs and I support net neutrality.
*Fill in the form carefully; to combat bots the form is less friendly and impossible to fill in by phone.
Strong disapproval from members of Congress (especially from Republicans and those that serve on committees with oversight for the FCC) could force a pause in the December 14 vote to derail net neutrality. To make your voice heard you may also call or email your member of Congress to support net neutrality protections.
Learn More:
NYTimes: F.C.C. Plans Net Neutrality Repeal in a Victory for Telecoms
Additional background information about Chairman Pai’s plan, visit ALA District Dispatch.
Net Neutrality II: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)
Contact info@metroiba.org | 612-404-0268 for questions or comments.
Posted in Advocacy
