1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

The Federal Communications Commission's net neutrality rules aimed to prohibit internet service providers from blocking or slowing down websites and online content. However, the FCC recently lost an appeal to reinstate these regulations, which were repealed in 2017. This decision allows broadband companies to potentially create internet "fast lanes" and "slow lanes," granting preferential treatment to certain websites over others. Without net neutrality protections, small businesses that cannot afford to pay for prioritized access may find themselves at a significant disadvantage, unable to compete effectively with larger companies that can pay for "fast lane" service. To maintain a free and open internet that fosters competition, innovation, and equal access for all, it is crucial to codify net neutrality principles into law through comprehensive legislation. Such a measure would help safeguard consumer rights, prevent unfair practices by internet providers, ensure a level playing field for online businesses of all sizes, and promote economic opportunity. This situation could potentially be avoided if government agencies with relevant expertise were allowed to properly fulfill their roles and responsibilities without undue political interference or obstruction from unqualified officials who lack understanding of the agencies' intended purposes and functions.