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Senate Votes to Overturn FCC’s Rollback of Net Neutrality Rules

May 16, 2018  •  Post A Comment

In a move that’s being called a “symbolic blow” to the FCC’s new rule on net neutrality, the Senate voted 52-47 today to nullify the panel’s rollback of regulations, NPR reports.

The report notes that despite today’s vote the new FCC rule remains on track to become effective next month.

“The outcome is unlikely to derail the FCC’s repeal of Obama-era rules that restrict Internet service providers’ ability to slow down or speed up users’ access to specific websites and apps,” NPR reports. “The legislative victory is fleeting because the House does not intend to take similar action, but Democrats are planning to carry the political fight over Internet access into the 2018 midterms.”

Sen. Edward Markey, D-Mass., is quoted saying during debate over the resolution: “Today is a monumental day. Today we show the American people who sides with them, and who sides with the powerful special interests and corporate donors who are thriving under this administration.”

NPR adds: “Critics of the FCC rollback say they’re worried about consumers being forced to pay more for less consistent or slower service. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, part of the Republican majority, has said the Obama rule was ‘heavy-handed’ and isn’t needed.”

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