WASHINGTON — The FCC voted 3-2 today to advanced new rules that would ban ISPs from blocking or throttling websites, but allow them to ink deals with content providers for preferential treatment.
The proposals are now open to public comment for 60 days, followed by another 60 days for replies. The FCC has invited input from all parties on a host of issues, including whether broadband should be reclassified as a public utility, allowing for far-greater regulation.
FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler hopes to complete a set of regulations for a vote by the end of the year. He has indicated that alterations could keep changing the rules if public outcry continues.
The vote among commission members was carried out in a packed meeting room and four advocates of pure net neutrality were escorted out of the building by security guards.
Public comment on the new FCC proposals can be made here.