Net Neutrality Could Be Salvaged by Senate Democrats

Senate Democrats push to overturn recent FCC rules that favor corporations over everyday people.

Ajit Pai
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Image via Getty/Alex Wong

Ajit Pai

Senate Democrats are fighting back against net neutrality.

In December, the FCC—led by Chairman Ajit Pai, who was appointed by Trump—decided to reverse and repeal Obama-era regulations on net neutrality. This decision strongly favors corporations over everyday Internet users like you.

However, according to WIRED, Senate Democrats are calling to dismantle the FCC's recent ruling through the Congressional Review Act. This law allows regulations by agencies to be overturned with the support of 51 Senators instead of 60.

While 49 Democratic Senators have signed on their support, Susan Collins, a Republican senator from Maine, also committed to vote alongside Democratic party lines to support accessible Internet for all. Don't get your hopes up just yet, though: Even with Collins's support, that leaves one more remaining vote needed to save net neutrality. 

Senate Democrats aren't the only ones opposing such powerful corporate control over the Internet. In January, Netflix tweeted it would challenge the FCC in court. Additionally, Montana and New York state governments have chimed in.

In the meantime, we'll be watching closely when—or if—another senator steps up in favor of Internet justice.

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