Washington Legislature Passes Net Neutrality Legislation
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BY JAMALA HENDERSON & DEREK WANG
Washington state lawmakers have passed legislation intended to restore net neutrality. Under the measure, internet providers are prohibited from blocking content or impairing traffic.
Supporters of the proposed state rules said the measure will protect consumers. But critics argue otherwise.
Republican state Senator Doug Ericksen said the rules are unnecessary and would impede innovation. He predicted that if the legislation moves ahead, it would lead to a legal fight.
“I think you can be assured, that should the state of Washington choose to be the first state in the country to pass legislation of this type that we will be sued by the companies, who believe that the FCC has jurisdiction over this particular type of regulation at the federal level,” Jenkins said. “It’s very hard to regulate the internet on a state by state basis.”
The bill also would require internet providers to disclose information about their commercial terms.
The legislation now goes to the governor’s desk.
Copyright 2018 KUOW
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