Net Neutrality

On Monday, September 21, before a full house at the esteemed Brookings Institute, the new Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission made a groundbreaking announcement regarding net neutrality. Chairman Julius Genachowski had announced his support of net neutrality early in his nomination process last Spring; but his speech yesterday made it clear that he is not only a serious advocate but that he has the will to push through new rules at the Commission. The announcement proposed turning the FCC’s existing four net neutrality principles into rules (which can be clearly enforced by the Commission) and adding two new rules; one rule would prohibit broadband providers from engaging in discriminatory online behavior; the second rule would require broadband operators to be transparent about their network management practices.

EDUCAUSE applauds these efforts and is prepared to work with the Commission to overcome the expected opposition and to reach agreement on various aspects of this complex issue. EDUCAUSE first joined the call for net neutrality legislation almost four years ago. The debate has waxed and waned over the years but has always centered on the fact that the four FCC principles were unenforceable and did not spell out any non-discrimination principles. With Genachowski’s announcement, the debate enters a new phase where FCC action may eliminate the need for legislation and accomplish both objectives.

The FCC also announced a new website: www.openinternet.gov where Genachowski’s speech is available and comments can be posted. The FCC will post information regarding the proceeding as it becomes available.