A US appeals court has blocked the Biden administration’s effort to restore net neutrality rules. This decision is a setback for advocates of a free and open internet. The court referenced the Supreme Court’s recent ruling in the Loper Bright case.
My statement with Senator Wyden on Sixth Circuit ruling on FCC’s authority to issue net neutrality rules. pic.twitter.com/i7rVYCSypI
— Ed Markey (@SenMarkey) January 3, 2025
This case has been influential in shaping regulatory authority and administrative actions. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Jessica Rosenworcel expressed disappointment with the ruling. She urged Congress to enact legislation that would restore net-neutrality regulations.
The internet thrives under freedom, not government control. The 6th Circuit’s decision halting Biden’s net neutrality mandate is a huge win for competition and innovation. The court rightly embraced post-Chevron clarity and rejected overregulation.https://t.co/hFkKnRDi6L
— Senator Kevin Cramer (@SenKevinCramer) January 2, 2025
The FCC Chair claimed the net-neutrality rule was needed to protect national security, but the real goal was to give bureaucrats power to micro-manage broadband pricing and investment. https://t.co/9EKvbr0fWx via @WSJopinion
— Senator John Cornyn (@JohnCornyn) January 4, 2025
Now more than ever, we need Congress to step in and establish laws that protect the openness of the internet,” Rosenworcel said in a statement.
Court blocks Biden net neutrality push
Industry groups have opposed the reinstatement of net neutrality rules.
They argue that such regulations could harm consumers by limiting investment in broadband infrastructure and innovation. Net neutrality has been a contentious issue in US politics. The Obama-era rules enforcing net neutrality were repealed in 2017 under the Trump administration.
Net neutrality is a fundamental need in an increasingly digital world.
We must fight against anything that makes the internet less accessible and more controlled. https://t.co/TPZuRc69ak
— Common Cause (@CommonCause) January 2, 2025
The Biden administration has sought to restore these rules. They view them as essential for maintaining an equal playing field on the internet. With the court’s recent decision, the future of net neutrality now depends on potential legislative action.
Advocates remain hopeful that a bipartisan effort in Congress could overcome the current legal challenges and establish lasting net neutrality protections.
