Internet access under scrutiny

2007-03-23 13:46

Washington - The Federal Communications Commission voted on Thursday to examine whether stricter regulation of the internet is necessary, but it's far from clear if or when the agency might take any action.

In a 5-0 vote, the FCC approved a so-called notice of inquiry into the practices of cable and phone companies that offer high-speed internet access. At issue is whether network operators are treating internet users and internet sites fairly and equally.

A number of interest groups and lawmakers, mostly Democratic, have agitated for clearer rules on what cable and phone companies can do. Some have urged adoption of "net neutrality" rules that would bar network operators from discriminating against internet sites.

The FCC has previously adopted general principles in favour of net neutrality, but network operators face little legal obligation to comply.

Cases of actual internet discrimination have been exceedingly rare, but some network operators have argued in favour of charging certain websites a fee to ensure speedy and reliable connections to their customers.

Critics say such an approach would favour big websites over smaller ones, give network operators too much control over the internet and stifle innovation.

Several bills aimed at ensuring neutrality have circulated in congress but none have gained enough support to become law. Republicans, backed by the Bush White House, have generally opposed stricter rules.

Fermenting debate

The latest FCC vote represents just the first step in a lengthy process. Michael Copps, one of two Democrats on the FCC's five-member decision-making board, expressed concern that the Republicans controlling the agency might try to bury the issue.

"History shows that notices of inquiries like this often disappear into the regulatory dustbin," he said.

Yet Republicans Robert McDowell and Deborah Taylor Tate said they needed more time to study the issue because they are new to the commission. Both were appointed less than a year ago.

Copps urged the FCC to adopt policies to require non-discrimination "and do everything we can to preserve the openness that made the internet so great".

Republicans countered that the agency shouldn't rush to enact new laws that might not be necessary.

"We must resist the temptation to impose rules on a theory," said McDowell, noting that cases of internet discrimination are almost non-existent so far.

- Dow Jones