Don't Shackle the Internet

[Commentary] USAToday may call this an "opposing view," but I agree that we can and should enact strong new network neutrality rules to keep the Internet open and free. So does the entire broadband industry. The only area of difference is in how we enact those rules. The Title II public utility approach, which President Barack Obama recommended and the Federal Communications Commission is considering, is the worst possible way to do so. It would shackle the Internet in an outdated legal regime from the Ma Bell era that has nothing to do with net neutrality at all -- opening the door to price regulation, new tax and fee increases, and a costly slowdown in investment and innovation.

America's Internet is thriving with lightning fast speeds, among the most affordable basic service in the world, and a seemingly unending stream of incredible new uses, applications and opportunities. The last thing we should do is put this at risk with a totally unnecessary and dangerous switch to the archaic Title II regime.

[Michael Powell is President and CEO of the National Cable and Telecommunications Association]