Feb. 22, 2018 – On Dec. 14, 2017, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to repeal net neutrality rules that require Internet service providers to treat online content equally and not interfere with consumers’ ability to lawfully access online content, applications, or websites of their choosing (the FCC released a final decision on Jan. 4, 2018). Without these rules, Internet service providers may force websites to pay fees for faster Internet speeds, while limiting consumers’ ability to access the Internet content of their choice.
The CPUC strongly objects to the FCC’s actions, and had urged the FCC to keep the non-discriminatory rules adopted in 2015, which are consistent with California’s continued efforts to promote fairness and access in the telecommunications market.
Today, the CPUC filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit a Petition for Review of the FCC’s decision to repeal net neutrality rules on the grounds that the decision is arbitrary, capricious, and an abuse of discretion. The CPUC says the FCC’s decision violates federal law, including but not limited to the U.S. Constitution and the Communications Act of 1934, and requests that the Court vacate the FCC’s decision.
The CPUC continues to be committed to consumers having fair and equal access to the Internet.