A Bill of Rights for the Online World

[Commentary] The Internet needs concrete, fundamental protections to ensure that it is not abused by those with the power to do so. That is why I was gravely disappointed when the DC Court of Appeals struck down the Federal Communications Commission's 2010 open Internet rules and why in the Senate, I am fighting to protect a free and open Internet.

Open Internet principles are the Bill of Rights for the online world. We should not allow an Internet that is divided into "haves" and "have-nots," where those who can afford to pay drown out the voices of those who cannot.

The FCC is now considering how best to restore open Internet protections. Since FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler began a proceeding to consider new open Internet rules, nearly 300,000 Americans have commented on his proposal.

The message is loud and clear: Americans want an Internet that is a platform for free expression and innovation, and where the best ideas and services can reach consumers based on merit rather than on money.

[Sen Leahy is Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee]