Internet Freedom Preservation Act (S. 215)

The Internet Freedom Preservation Act (S. 215), introduced by Sens. Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) and Olympia Snowe (R-Maine), would have reinstated protections for Net Neutrality. It would have ensured that all content, applications and services are equally accessible and would have prohibited broadband network operators from blocking, degrading, or prioritizing service on their networks.

The Internet Freedom Preservation Act would have amended the Communications Act to ensure that consumers and online businesses can use the Internet without interference from broadband service providers. Broadband service providers would have been required to operate the network in a nondiscriminatory manner, but could otherwise manage the network to, for example, protect the security of the network or offer different levels of broadband connections to users. Consumers would, however, have had the option of purchasing a "stand-alone" broadband connection not bundled with cable, phone or VoIP service.

Within 180 days of enactment, the FCC -- which can issue monetary of other penalties for violations -- would have been required to adopt rules for resolution of complaints within 90 days of their filing. The FCC would also have had to report to Congress on the delivery of content, applications and services into and over broadband networks.

Free Press strongly supported this bill.

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