5 no-bull facts you need to know about the 'no-Internet-fast-lane' bill

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[Commentary] The Washington Post reported that a new bill is about to be put before Congress that would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to prohibit Internet "fast lane" schemes, where ISPs charge extra for faster access to premium content.

The possible long-term effects of such proposals are sparking fierce debate. Most argue there is an obvious need for some kind of government regulation -- but what kind? And how likely is it that this particular bill -- dubbed the "Online Competition and Consumer Choice Act," and sponsored by Senate Judiciary Committee chair Patrick Leahy and Representative Doris Matsui -- can make a difference in the ongoing struggle between ISPs, customers, and government authorities over network neutrality?

Here's the five most crucial things you need to know about the bill right now.

  1. The bill doesn't actually give the FCC any new powers
  2. An outright ban on "pay-for-play" may be tough to draft, or enforce
  3. The FCC won't be taking the "nuclear option" (reclassifying Internet service providers as common carriers) anytime soon -- if ever
  4. Other bills are in the works that could gut the FCC's regulatory powers over broadband
  5. Don't expect the bill to get very far to begin with

5 no-bull facts you need to know about the 'no-Internet-fast-lane' bill