The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has passed a new law known as Net Neutrality. In a nutshell, this law requires Internet providers, such as Comcast or Verizon, to handle all Internet traffic the same, and to not charge different rates for different amounts of usage or to block other competitors. It means that groups can’t charge more for Internet access per person, application, mode of accessing the Internet (think phone vs. laptop), or site. The law was decided by a vote of 3 to 2 within the FCC. 

Here is what the law does: 

• Treats all Internet usage the same 

• Access to different websites will not be slowed down by ads placed by companies with larger advertisement budgets

• Protects open access to the Internet

• Applies to Internet used on a smart phone 

Open Internet policies were to expire this year, bringing up the issue of net neutrality. The pro-net neutrality side says this policy will protect the right of free speech of those who use the Internet. It will help keep big corporations from censoring the Internet and protect consumer privacy. Those against net neutrality open Internet policies will discourage private investors, and the government is micromanaging and innovation will slow down. 

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) says this is a victory free speech. The ACLU said the FCC plays a critical role in ensuring that people have the ability to see and say what they want online without interference. Greenpeace also spoke out on Facebook in favor of the ruling. Their post reads: “An open [and] free internet means people fighting on the front lines of environmental destruction won’t have to battle with big corporations to have their voices heard.”

So what does this mean for you? It essentially means that no matter how much or how little you and your family use the Internet, you will be charged the same for it. On one hand, this is good news. You’ll probably have lower Internet bills per month, and maybe even lower cell phone data bills. On the other hand, it means that for people who don’t use the Internet very often, they will still be charged the same as people who use the Internet every day. 

This law changes nothing from how it operated before. You will still be able to browse the Internet as you please and binge-watch Netflix to your heart’s content. For your cell phone usage, you will still be set a cap and you will be charged if you go over that cap. What changes is that you can’t be charged different amounts for different amounts of usage. 

So congratulations! The Internet is still open and free! Happy Netflix binging.