Net neutrality battle looms

The Biden administration is gearing up for a showdown with cable and telecommunication companies over plans to bring back Obama-era net neutrality rules. President Biden's wide-ranging competition executive order that in part encouraged the FCC to reinstate the net neutrality rules was met with opposition from broadband industry groups; industry leaders fear net neutrality rules will pave the way for the government to set broadband prices and have argued that the rules deter investment in the sector. But the administration believes that net neutrality rules are good policy, and rather than hamper investment, push companies to focus on building out their networks because they block other avenues for revenue. All eyes will be on the FCC to begin the lengthy process to reinstate the rules, yet progress is hindered by a deadlocked Commission and lack of a Democratic majority.