Net neutrality: Back in the spotlight for debate
The debate over Net neutrality has reignited as broadband service providers hit the first deadline for applying for funds as part of President Obama’s economic stimulus plan. Thursday marked the first deadline for broadband service providers looking to get a piece of the $4.7 billion that will be doled out in the plan’s initial phase. In total, Congress has authorized $7.2 billion as part of the Recovery Act to be used to bring high-speed broadband Internet access to consumers and business in areas of the country where service is not yet available or is too expensive.
Many of the large broadband providers such as AT&T, Comcast, and Verizon Communications have decided not to apply for stimulus funds. While some of these companies, like Verizon, said months ago they would not apply for funds, some experts believe that stipulations announced in July requiring recipients to adhere to Net neutrality principles may have kept some of these big operators from throwing their hats into the ring.
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