Pandemic proves need for net neutrality, open internet

If it wasn’t obvious before, the coronavirus pandemic makes clear the need for an open internet with broadband access for all Americans. But don’t hold your breath waiting for the broadband industry to see the light on control of the internet. AT&T, Comcast, Verizon, T-Mobile and other major Internet service providers aren’t backing away from their goal of raking in billions by charging websites more for priority access to the internet. The providers are hoping Republicans will regain the White House in 2024 and once again roll back net neutrality provisions.

Congress should act to strengthen net neutrality and end the policy swings from one presidential administration to the next. But that isn’t likely as long as Senate Democrats lack enough votes to block a Republicans filibuster and the broadband industry, which has spent more than $1 billion lobbying members of Congress in the last 10 years, remains a potent political force. So that leaves it up to the Federal Communications Commission and, thanks to the Justice Department action Feb 8, states such as California to protect consumers and small businesses from being controlled by a small group of broadband companies that put profits before the needs of internet users.