Seattle Times, The

The Washington House on Feb 9 passed a bill meant to ensure the state's residents don't see a disruption in internet service. House Bill 2282 passed on a strong bipartisan 93-5 vote and now heads to the Senate for consideration. Under the measure, internet providers are prohibited from blocking content or impairing traffic. The bill also would require providers to disclose information about their management practices, performance and commercial terms. Violations would be enforceable under the state's Consumer Protection Act.

Championing a bill that protects consumers and ensures small businesses can compete in a world driven by technology made perfect sense to WA state Rep Norma Smith (R-Whidbey Island). State Rep Smith doesn’t view network neutrality laws as a partisan issue. Whether you’re a Republican or a Democrat, “this is an issue that needs to matter to everyone,” Smith said. State Rep Smith and WA state Rep Drew Hansen (D-Bainbridge Island) both have sponsored bills that would ensure net neutrality in Washington state. The bills were easily voted out of committee and now mirror each other.