We’ve heard plenty on the FCC’s internet neutrality ruling, although the only really congratulatory statements have been from companies that were pandered to (Google, I’m looking at you!). However, that may change somewhat as the full text, just released, has re-visited some of the “ambiguous” phrasing that had many net neutrality proponents foaming with rage.
According to a report from Engadget, the full text was released on December 24th for all to see. Much of what’s present inside is precisely what was reported. Yes, ISPs will have to give all kinds of information about their network management, providing both government and consumers with a high level of transparency. No, ISPs can’t block “any lawful application or service” or “discriminate against” different traffic sources. Yes, mobile internet still gets away with restricting or prioritizing different types of traffic sources, which FCC representatives have somehow connected to the fact that Google’s Android is open (causing all onlookers to raise their eyebrows en mass). However, some of the language on ISP permissions has been fine-tuned.
The language previously released indicated that ISPs couldn’t provider faster access to paying corporations “except where reasonable,” leading to a big outcry over the built-in flexibility of the rules. The new statement clarifies this, stating that the FCC would be scrutinizing any such deals, and that the vast majority of them wouldn’t be accepted. So, the built-in rule-breaking opportunity has simply turned into a blanket statement that indicates, “You can’t do this unless you come up with a really, really good reason why we should let you.”
While you can expect plenty of controversy after this release, including the repetition of the complaints that were voiced from just after the initial ruling, it may be a while before we have fully informed groups debating this. After all, the 200 page document will take a bit to review.
