Public support for wireless net neutrality rules
October 1, 2014
The US Internet Association has released a nationwide survey demonstrating strong support for net neutrality protections for wireless Internet users. Nearly 90 per cent of respondents say they do not favour wireless carriers creating fast and slow lanes for the Internet, while more than two-thirds say that wireless Internet providers should not be able to block access to lawful websites and apps.
In multiple filings with the FCC, The Internet Association has pressed its case for harmonising net neutrality rules over wireline and wireless networks. The Internet Association highlighted the dangers of treating mobile and wireline networks differently, pointing out that wireless providers believe that mobile broadband should be exempt from no-blocking and non-discrimination rules, essentially arguing for the right to block any mobile app or use at their discretion.
“There is only one Internet and the FCC’s open Internet rules should recognise that. No matter how users choose to connect to the Internet, net neutrality rules should apply universally on both wireless and wireline networks,” said Michael Beckerman, President and CEO of The Internet Association.
Strong public support for net neutrality is evident in the overwhelming flood of more than 3.7 million comments to the FCC, urging the Commission to protect an open Internet. This recent survey finds a similar measure of support among the public specifically on the question of wireless net neutrality. The following survey was fielded on September 8th 2014 and commissioned by the Internet Association and SurveyMonkey. Results were collected from a representative sample of 550 Americans using SurveyMonkey Audience.
“High speed Internet access is a necessity to compete in today’s economy,” said Beckerman. “Connecting through a mobile device is often the only way low-income Americans get online. Creating enforceable net neutrality rules that cover both wired and wireless connections ensures that all Americans have access to an uncensored Internet.”