Ma Bell Is Back. Should You Be Afraid?Congressional action is only part of the Net Neutrality solution. The other part is you. Because even if passed, there is only one way Net Neutrality can work, and that's if it becomes the third rail of telecom politics.
Slate - January 5, 2007
Media Critic's Blog Shuttered after Disney ComplainsIn the latest skirmish between big media and a blogger, The Walt Disney Company has succeeded in shutting down the Web site "Spocko's Brain" after the site's campaign to pull advertisers from a hard right talk radio ABC affiliate.
Media Post - January 5, 2007
Internet Toll Lanes Appear Less LikelyAs head of the muscular new AT&T, Ed Whitacre surprisingly agreed last week that his company would not sell premium delivery of Web content for the next two years. His decision could spur Congress to extend the prohibition to all Internet providers.
Los Angeles Times - January 5, 2007
Stevens Expected to Get Co-Chair TitleAccording to the communications director for the now-Democrat controlled Senate Commerce Committee, Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) will likely be made co-chairman of the committee.
Broadcasting & Cable - January 4, 2007
Senators Aim to Ease Up on Net, Phone TaxesMembers of the newly seated U.S. Congress wasted no time in proposing a series of measures designed to extend and expand tax breaks on Internet and telephone service.
CNet - January 4, 2007
Telecom Deal Could Spur Net NeutralitySeeking to win approval for its $86 billion buyout of BellSouth, telecom giant AT&T has agreed to several concessions that have important implications for schools and other consumers.
eSchool News - January 4, 2007
USA Not in IPTV Top TenThe United States is not among the ten countries with the most IPTV subscribers in the world, new data reveals. North America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa combined make up only 8% of the world's 2.7 million IPTV subscribers.
Telephony Online - January 4, 2007
AT&T Climbdown Is a Victory for Net Neutrality -- If Congress ActsDespite AT&T's temporary concession on Net Neutrality in its merger agreement, only a Democrat-driven bill obliging phone companies not to discriminate between sources of data will keep information flowing freely.
Guardian - January 4, 2007
Internet Caucus Chairmen Optimistic on Net NeutralityAs the House looks for bipartisan issues to pass early this session, universal service video franchising and Net Neutrality proposals are issues the new co-chairmen of the Internet Caucus hope the new Congress will address sooner rather than later.
National Journal - January 3, 2007
Time Warner Hires Inouye AideA top telecommunications policy adviser to incoming Senate Commerce Committee chairman Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii), was hired by Time Warner as vice president for global public policy.
Multichannel News - January 3, 2007
FCC Approves AT&T-BellSouth Merger and Pink Slips 10,000 WorkersLost in the details of the AT&T-BellSouth merger is the fact that mega-merger means mega-layoffs. AT&T estimates that 10,000 jobs will be phased out as workers become "vendors" and jobs become "projects."
Save Access - January 3, 2007
Attitudes Shift on Net NeutralityA compromise proposed by AT&T to win federal approval of its $86 billion acquisition of BellSouth signals how much the impending takeover of Congress by Democrats has shifted telecom's regulatory landscape.
Chicago Tribune - January 3, 2007
AT&T Deal Saves Net NeutralityBecause AT&T agreed to Net Neutrality principles to get regulators to approve the $86 billion merger, experts say this is a landmark moment in Internet history, preserving -- for now -- the egalitarian ways of the Web.
Inside Bay Area - January 3, 2007
Protecting Internet DemocracyThe Democratic FCC Commissioners were right to extract a Net Neutrality concession from the AT&T-BellSouth merger, but it should not be necessary to negotiate separate deals like this one. Net Neutrality should be a basic rule of the information highway.
New York Times - January 3, 2007
NAB, NCTA Square Off over CompetitionThe National Association of Broadcasters and the National Cable & Telecommunications Association traded blows in reply comments filed at the FCC on the state of competition in the video marketplace.
Broadcasting & Cable - January 2, 2007
Benton Foundation Calls for National Broadband PlanBenton Foundation Chairman Charles Benton sent President George Bush a letter asking him to create a national broadband strategy, saying bigger, faster broadband pipes are needed and must extend further into every corner, community, and city in America."
Benton Foundation - January 2, 2007
AT&T-BellSouth Deal Could Affect Net Neutrality Debate in CongressLegislative attempts to codify Net Neutrality fell short last year. But the forthcoming 110th Congress, which convenes Thursday, may offer a second chance.
National Journal - January 2, 2007
FCC to Gut AT&T's Concessions?The AT&T-BellSouth agreement may not be perfectly pleasing to anyone, but that doesn't make it a Trojan horse designed to slip through the regulatory barricades and then slaughter the inhabitants within.
ars technica - January 2, 2007
Net Neutrality Push Expected to Resume in CongressThe nation's soon-to-be largest telephone company may have caved to certain Net Neutrality commitments for the sake of a merger blessing, but a renewed push for more sweeping rules could return to Capitol Hill as soon as this month.
CNet - January 2, 2007
Network Neutrality Supporters Target CongressUltimately, the success of any Net Neutrality legislation will probably come down to the details of how it is written. But if neutrality backers push for modest legislation this year, they might well see success.
ars technica - January 2, 2007
AT&T Merger Contains First Net Neutrality GuidelinesThe AT&T-BellSouth merger agreement contains an unprecedented Net Neutrality provision that could form the basis of future policy and regulations. Proponents have kicked off a campaign for legislative action in a "Broadband Bill of Rights" in 2007.
Tech Web News - January 2, 2007
How Will Network Neutrality Fare In 2007?AT&T will be out from under Net Neutrality concessions in two years. In the meantime, technologies, business models and politics of electronic communications will likely change drastically. That means the real battle for Internet freedom has just begun.
VoIP News - January 2, 2007
Industry Braces for Net Neutrality FalloutFCC Chairman Kevin Martin may think Net Neutrality rules are not needed, but the issue ranks second only to media ownership as the issue prompting the most consumer letters and comments at his own agency.
Wall Street Journal - January 2, 2007
The Family ComputerPast telecom breakthroughs, such as radio, sound recording and TV, were left to the marketplace to sort themselves out, and the result has been the total commercial dominance of the public airwaves. The AT&T-BellSouth merge alters that pattern a bit.
Napa Valley Register - January 2, 2007
McSlarrow Faces ChangesNCTA President Kyle McSlarrow is a veteran Republican who faces a new Democratic majority in Congress. He is a free-market fan who is up against an FCC chairman who has hammered the industry on several fronts.
Broadcasting & Cable - January 1, 2007
AT&T Charging Premium for its Stand-Alone DSLEven though AT&T offers high-speed Internet connections to customers who don't use AT&T's phone service, it's not really a bargain. It costs more to have a stand-alone broadband connection than it does to have a phone-broadband bundle.
Chicago Tribune - January 1, 2007
Democrats Take Turn on Telecom ReformDemocrats will control the House and Senate, giving them the upper hand in guiding telecom reform. But it remains to be seen whether they can pass bills that will win President Bush's signature.
Cox News Service - January 1, 2007
FCC Video Franchise Vote Out of BoundsThe National Cable & Telecommunications Association is making noises that it will sue the FCC over the recent 3-2 vote to change video franchise rules, saying that the commission has overstepped its bounds.
TV Week - January 1, 2007
A Win for Net NeutralityIn most parts of AT&T's turf, it competes only with the local cable operator, if anyone. That's not enough to protect consumers or Web sites, which is why a temporary Net Neutrality requirement makes sense for the entire industry.
Los Angeles Times - January 1, 2007
FCC Clears AT&T MergerAlthough AT&T Chairman Ed Whitacre Jr. said, "We can't wait to show people what the new AT&T can do," after receiving approval for his company's huge merger with BellSouth, consumer groups fear exactly that.
Los Angeles Times - January 1, 2007
Cable Fees to Be Hot Legislative Issue in TennesseeThe upcoming legislative session is likely to feature several education proposals, but the most spirited fight may be over phone companies trying to jump into the statewide cable TV market.
Associated Press - December 30, 2006
Two Thoughts on the AT&T MergerIn the context of Net Neutrality context, we should take the momentum generated by this merger discussion and use it to drive towards generally-applicable, clear-as-possible legislation that is transparent and public-minded.
Susan Crawford Blog - December 30, 2006
FCC Approves AT&T-BellSouth MergerThe two Democratic FCC Commissioners voted for the AT&T-BellSouth merger only after some meaningful conditions were attached to the deal. And they still aren't happy with the process leading up to the merger or the fact that it went through at all.
ars technica - December 30, 2006
AT&T Closes BellSouth Deal after FCC OKThe FCC unanimously approved the $86 billion AT&T buyout of BellSouth, a day after the company offered new concessions for consumers and competitors.
New York Times - December 30, 2006
A Victory We Can Hang Our Hats OnThe bottom line: Will the AT&T merger Net Neutrality condition advance our cause in the marketplace and in Congress? In the market, bad behavior will be disciplined. In Congress, the debate will shift from should we have neutrality to how and when.
SavetheInternet.com - December 29, 2006
AT&T Net Neutrality Condition: Win, Lose or DrawMost media reformers and consumer advocates would have preferred seeing the FCC reject the AT&T-BellSouth merger. But we have gained three very significant things: A clear definition of Net Neutrality that will apply to Wi-Max and making AT&T cry uncle.
SavetheInternet.com - December 29, 2006
AT&T Offers Net Neutrality Concessions to Win Merger ApprovalChief among the concessions AT&T made in order to get their merger with BellSouth approved was a promise to maintain standards of Net Neutrality on AT&T's broadband services for 30 months from the date of the merger approval.
Consumer Affairs - December 29, 2006
FCC Finalizes the DealThe telecom deal that shook the world was quickly sealed in an airplane hangar in Memphis, Tenn. Without an entourage of bankers and lawyers, the CEO's of AT&T and BellSouth shook hands on a deal that began its groundwork in 2000.
San Antonio Express-News - December 29, 2006
AT&T Closes BellSouth Deal After FCC OKAT&T completed its $86 billion buyout of BellSouth, the largest telecom takeover in U.S. history, shortly after the FCC unanimously approved the deal.
Associated Press - December 29, 2006
Consumer Effects of AT&T-BellSouth ComboThe concessions AT&T made to win regulatory approval of its mammoth merger with BellSouth have many implications for consumers.
Associated Press - December 29, 2006
FCC Announces Approval of AT&T-BellSouth MergerThe FCC approved the merger of AT&T and BellSouth. AT&T made a series of voluntary commitments that are enforceable by the Commission, including Net Neutrality conditions for a period of 24 months.
Federal Communications Commission - December 29, 2006
Net Neutrality Saved in AT&T MergerThe FCC approved the $85 billion merger of AT&T and BellSouth. In a victory for advocates of Internet freedom, the terms of the deal include strict protections for Net Neutrality and concessions that will lower the cost of Internet access.
Free Press - December 29, 2006
AT&T Concedes to Net NeutralityThe telcos will try to get around the new regulations set forth in the AT&T-BellSouth merger. But the fact is a Bush-crony FCC Chairman and a multi-billion dollar telecom industry lost to a group of public interest advocates and a fed-up public.
MyDD - December 29, 2006
Podcast: Ben Scott on AT&T's Net Neutrality DefeatFree Press Policy Director Ben Scott was interviewed by blogger Sean-Paul Kelley on the stunning concessions to Net Neutrality made by AT&T in order to complete its merger with BellSouth. <i>(Audio 19:26)</i>
Agonist - December 29, 2006
AT&T Agrees Not to Take Away Our Internet --TemporarilyWith an end-of-year deadline looming to get FCC approval of its takeover of BellSouth, AT&T agreed to significant conditions on the deal that will keep control of the public's Internet in the hands of the public -- at least temporarily.
Huffington Post - December 29, 2006
AT&T Embraces (Some) Net NeutralityHow badly does AT&T want to complete the BellSouth merger? It formally offered Net Neutrality as a bargaining chip.
Light Reading - December 29, 2006
Net Neutrality to Protect a Marketplace of IdeasSenators Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) and Olympia Snowe (R-Maine), along with Roberta Combs of the Christian Coalition, reply to a recent <i>Wall Street Journal</i> Op-Ed that opposed Net Neutrality.
Wall Street Journal - December 29, 2006
Dorgan and Snowe Statement on FCC's Approval of AT&T-BellSouth MergerU.S. Senators Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) and Olympia Snowe (R-Maine) issued a statement on the FCC's approval of the merger between AT&T and BellSouth.
Senators Byron Dorgan and Olympia Snowe - December 29, 2006
FCC Plans a Vote on AT&T-BellSouth Merger ConcessionsIn important concession, AT&T agreed to sell DSL as an individual service for $19.95 a month without requiring consumers to also purchase telephone service as a condition of its merger with BellSouth.
TechWeb - December 29, 2006
FCC Close on AT&T-BellSouth DealThe FCC appeared close to approving AT&T's merger with BellSouth after AT&T embraced Net Neutrality practices for two years to win support from FCC Democrats that had been holding up the deal.
Multichannel News - December 29, 2006
FCC Likely to Approve Bells' Megamerger by Year's EndAT&T has agreed to stiffer conditions on the merger, including a special $19.95 per month price tag for high-speed Internet service and a promise for the next two years to adhere to Network Neutrality rules outlined by the FCC.
CNet - December 29, 2006
Net Neutrality Advocates Cheer AT&T ConcessionsAT&T on Thursday offered the net neutrality concession — saying it will not prioritize or degrade network traffic based on "source, ownership or destination" for two years after the merger.
IDG News Service - December 29, 2006
AT&T Offers New Concessions on BellSouthAT&T has offered concessions beyond what it had promised in October, including a significant pledge to observe standards regarding Net Neutrality -- basically, equal treatment for all Internet traffic.
Associated Press - December 29, 2006
Why AT&T's Net Neutrality Concession Is a Milestone in the History of the InternetThe AT&T merger agreement is a milestone and may even be remembered as an important moment in Internet history. Most notable is the agreement's striking inclusion of the first strong Net Neutrality language yet seen in any broadband regulatory device.
SavetheInternet.com - December 29, 2006
AT&T Yields to Neutrality, Paves Path to CongressIn a striking victory for Internet freedom advocates, AT&T officials agreed on Thursday night to adhere to strict Network Neutrality conditions if allowed to complete their proposed $85 billion merger with BellSouth.
SavetheInternet.com - December 29, 2006
AT&T Sends Letter to FCC Expanding Conditions for Merger with BellSouthAT&T sent a formal letter to the FCC outlining expanded conditions for its merger with BellSouth. Among the conditions: A promise of Net Neutrality for 30 months. This is a copy of the letter.
Federal Communications Commission - December 28, 2006
AT&T Sweetens Terms for BuyoutAT&T Inc. has offered a new set of concessions that are expected to satisfy the two Democrats on the Federal Communications Commission and lead to approval of the company s $85 billion buyout of BellSouth Corp.
Associated Press - December 28, 2006
Net Neutrality and Rights of WayIs granting a very few telephone companies monopoly rights over telephone and Internet and then letting them also control physical rights of way good risk management?
Perilocity - December 27, 2006
Trying to Slow Down BitTorrent Traffic Will Backfire BadlyTo get customers, the ISPs all promised unlimited bandwidth at cheap prices, making the calculation that the demand for bandwidth wouldn't increase very much. But they were wrong. And now they want to limit bandwidth usage to fix their mistake.
Tech Dirt - December 27, 2006
2006 Foot-in-Mouth AwardsThe Wired News' 2006 Foot-in-Mouth Awards are compiled from readers who have sent their picks for the lamest quotes from or about the world of technology during this eventful year.
Wired - December 26, 2006
Ma Bell Is Calling Again, with a Big VoiceWith its plan to buy BellSouth, AT&T stands poised manage more than a third of the nation's land lines, hold 23% of the broadband Internet market, and leave nearly 95% of the offices in major cities without real choice in service. How much is too much?
Los Angeles Times - December 26, 2006
Damn the Incumbents, and Full Speed AheadThe American people should be outraged at getting a second-rate solution for something as critical as its network infrastructure. It goes against what average consumers demand in almost every other product and service arena.
Wisconsin Technology Network - December 26, 2006
New Leaders, Old IssuesFor the first time since the dial-up era, Democrats will have a majority voice in Congress. Will the Democrats accomplish anything more than the Republicans, who promised much but delivered little when it came to tech and Net Neutrality?
Internet News - December 26, 2006
FCC Sides with Verizon & Wireless and Votes to Strip Local Communities of Control over Cable FranchisingAnthony Riddle, of the Alliance for Community Media, talks about the FCC's 3-2 vote to change cable franchising laws and the court challenge that critics are already planning.
Democracy Now! - December 26, 2006
AT&T Launches Telco TV In 7 MarketsAT&T has launched its fledgling telco TV service in the extended San Francisco area, but continues to miss deadlines promised for its national rollout.
Media Post - December 26, 2006
FCC Video Vote Ruffles Cable FeathersFCC Chairman Kevin Martin has bought the telcos' case that they are being held back from getting franchises, but there's no evidence to support that claim.
TV Technology - December 26, 2006
Year in Review: Net Neutrality2006 saw the debate over Net Neutrality transform from a below-the-radar murmur into a divisive political rallying cry complete with YouTube videos, online petitions, television and newspaper ads, and even a Capitol Hill appearance by Moby.
CNet - December 24, 2006
FTC Goes to the Public on Net NeutralityWhat was pretty much a non-issue less than a year ago now has the FTC asking for guidance. The Commission announced it will host a public workshop on "Broadband Connectivity Competition Policy" in Washington, D.C. in February.
Web Pro News - December 24, 2006
American Cable Association: Martin MisguidedAmerican Cable Association CEO Matthew M. Polka said new FCC rules on video franchising upset the balance of competition, take authority away from local governments, and give the Bell companies a free pass on serving all subscribers in a market.
Multichannel News - December 22, 2006
Consumers Union Says FCC Move on Video Competition RiskyConsumers Union called the FCC's decision to let phone companies begin offering video services without adhering to basic consumer protection requirments, "a risky move based on only flimsy evidence that consumers will actually benefit from the move."
HearUsNow.org - December 22, 2006
Video Franchise Rules Eased for TelcosIn an unusually rancorous FCC meeting, Democratic Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein challenged FCC staff on the assertion that localities are blocking access and Chairman Kevin Martin departed from what is usually a carefully scripted meeting.
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review - December 22, 2006
AT&T, BellSouth Nearing FCC ApprovalAT&T is suggesting it is willing to make further compromises to push their merger with BellSouth through to an FCC approval. One of the possibilities is to freeze bandwidth prices for several years until Congress can deal with Net Neutrality.
Business Week - December 22, 2006
AT&T, Verizon Get Holiday Gift from the FCCThe FCC handed down a new ruling that will make it easier for telcos to roll out IPTV services, which would bypass traditional cable company offerings. But the two dissenting Democrats cited several reasons why the decision may not be the last word.
Engadget - December 22, 2006
A Mega-Merger that Needs to Be BlockedThe two Democratic commissioners of the FCC, Jonathan Adelstein and Michael Copps, have blocked the FCC's approval of the AT&T-BellSouth merger. That is good news. They are acting in the interest of the American people.
Seattle Times - December 22, 2006
FCC Chairman Martin UnleashedWhether FCC Chairman Kevin Martin and the telcos will succeed in manipulating the video franchise laws is extremely doubtful. And 2007 will bring new fireworks and much needed oversight to an FCC chairman determined to deliver to the Bells.
Center for American Progress - December 21, 2006
FCC Eases Path for Phone Firms to Offer TVThe FCC voted 3-2 to streamline the rules under which states and localities grant phone companies franchises to offer television services.
Austin American-Statesman - December 21, 2006
AT&T, Bell South Downplay Delisting NoticeThe New York Stock Exchange released a delisting notice to member companies indicating that the AT&T-BellSouth merger could close soon. Spokesmen for the companies were downplaying the notice, saying that "nothing's happening."
Broadcasting & Cable - December 21, 2006
The FCC Shafts the LocalsAT&T and Verizon got what they wanted from the FCC -- an easy way into video franchises. They will probably get what they want when the rulemaking is approved next year. Whether any of that will improve the lot of consumers is a much different question.
TomPaine.com - December 21, 2006
Eight Internet Losers in 2006Though the Internet had a breakout year 2006, it wasn't all birthday cakes and butterflies for everyone. Companies, institutions and philosophies came head to head to exert some sort of control over it.
Web Pro News - December 21, 2006
FCC Blames Your Town for the Uncompetitive TV Market the FCC Helped CreateThe FCC voted to pass new guidelines that make it easier for Baby Bells to get into the TV business, protecting them from "unreasonable build-out requirements" by municipalities -- though the new rules don't really specify what "unreasonable" means.
Tech Dirt - December 21, 2006
Net Neutrality Foes Seize on Sony Playstation-Akamai DealSome think free markets have both an intelligence and a morality about them. But the markets are far more short-sighted and greedy than enlightened. We need a constraining force. And only government is powerful enough to provide that force.
ZDNet - December 21, 2006
SavetheInternet.com Named Internet Hero of 2006SavetheInternet.com's "standout" grassroots coalition just won honors as the top "Internet Hero of 2006."
SavetheInternet.com - December 21, 2006
Ten Internet Heroes of 2006With all the drama on the Internet this year, it was difficult to narrow down the villains list. But the heroes list was harder to make because there's nothing more subjective than a hero. Nevertheless, there are a few clear standouts.
Web Pro News - December 21, 2006
Principle Rears its Ugly Head at the FCCThe FCC under Republican Chairman Kevin Martin has been a government regulatory agency driven by principle -- the principle most often being, "whatever Big Business wants, Big Business gets."
Information Week - December 21, 2006
Granholm Signs Cable TV Bill - Without Net NeutralityThe most contentious issue of the Michigan lame duck season -- cable franchising reform -- was signed into law by Gov. Jennifer Granholm. The new legislation does not address Net Neutrality.
Gongwer News Service - December 21, 2006
Eight Internet Winners in 2006The year 2006 was a major year for all things Internet related. Record broadband adoption, major government attention, and the advent of video and social media made it the Internet's best year ever.
Web Pro News - December 21, 2006
Phone Carriers Win a Skirmish in Cable WarsThe telcos victory at the FCC might be short-lived. The risk of litigation is high for its decision to steamroll over state and city authority.
New York Times - December 21, 2006
Bell Companies' FCC Victory Might Be Short-LivedPhone companies scored a win at the FCC when the agency agreed to change rules to let them enter the cable-television business faster. But the victory may be short-lived, as congressional Democrats complained and opponents threatened legal action.
Wall Street Journal - December 21, 2006
FCC Adopts 'Relief' for Telcos Planning TV OfferingsThe Democratic FCC commissioners said the order to override state and municipal authority in local franchise agreements is a "rushed decision" that runs afoul of a framework for granting local franchises established by federal law.
CNet - December 21, 2006
FCC Hands Bell Companies Video Franchising VictoryDespite opposition from Congress and the cable industry, the FCC overrode state video franchising rules, giving new competitors, mainly telcos, easier entry to providing television services in cities and municipalities nationwide.
XChange Magazine - December 21, 2006
FCC Plan to Juice Cable Competition Squeezes Consumer ProtectionsThe FCC has sided with the telcos over citizens and has put powerful interests over communities in their decision to override state and municiple authorities in video franchising.
Boston Globe - December 21, 2006
FCC Decision on Video Franchising Is Detrimental for Local GovernmentThe National League of Cities said they are "confounded" by decision by the FCC that would "systematically block the ability of local governments to protect their citizens, local assets and revenues."
National League of Cities - December 20, 2006
FCC Attacks PEG Funding, Community Media, Congressional Authority. Goes Home for Pleasant Holiday SeasonAt the FCC meeting where they voted to gut local state and municipal video franchise authority, there was no proclamation -- only comments on a proclamation which has been written into law. But the order is not being shared with the public.
Alliance for Community Media - December 20, 2006
FCC Adopts Rules for Franchising Process for New Video Market EntrantsThe FCC adopted a "Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking" for a ruling that prohibits franchising authorities from "unreasonably refusing to award competitive franchises for the provision of cable services."
Federal Communications Commission - December 20, 2006
Dingell Questions FCC Authority on Video FranchisingThe incoming chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Rep. John Dingell (D-Mich.), is questioning whether the FCC has the legal authority to issue rules that would make it easier for competitors to enter the cable television business.
Associated Press - December 20, 2006
FCC to Cities: Give AT&T a BreakWhile most agree greater competition leads to healthier markets, the question for lawmakers now is whether the FCC has the right to dictate how cities and states open up markets to competitors and determine which competitor markets should be more open.
Beta News - December 20, 2006
FCC Kills Build-Out Requirements for Telecoms' Video ServicesThe FCC video franchise vote was along party lines, and it already has some observers calling foul. Cable industry representatives and Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) questioned the FCC's authority to make such a change.
ars technica - December 20, 2006
FCC Backs Phone GiantsRep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) said that the FCC decision to override state and muncipal authority in local video franchise agreements gave "an early Christmas present for the Bell telephone utilities" and "a lump of coal for many communities."
Chicago Tribune - December 20, 2006
FCC Gives Telcos Big VictoryIn what amounts to a "national" franchise agreement, the FCC has ruled 3-2 that telephone companies are not bound directly by the same regulations and limitations that cable television systems have today.
Technocrat - December 20, 2006
Cable Rep Rips FCC Price ReportThe head of the nation's cable lobby attacked an FCC report on cable prices as an "anachronism" that pretends the telecommunications revolution never happened.
Hollywood Reporter - December 20, 2006
FCC Clears Way for TelcosA sharply divided FCC voted 3-2 along partisan lines to impose new measures that strip away local control of video franchise agreements. Commissioners Copps and Adelstein expressed concern about the legal authority to impose the new rules.
Associated Press - December 20, 2006
FCC Vote Could Speed Up Telecom TVWhile only Congress can do away with local franchises altogether, FCC Chairman Kevin Martin believes the Commission can impose new rules to strip local governments of the ability to add certain conditions to their franchise agreements.
CNet - December 20, 2006
Barton Wants FCC to Move Forward with AT&T-Bell South MergerOutgoing House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Joe Barton (R-Tex.) wants the FCC to get on with approving the AT&T-Bell South merger -- without any general conditions.
Broadcasting & Cable - December 20, 2006
Telcos Await FCC on Cable RulingThe FCC will consider a proposal to drastically change the video franchising procedure by taking away most rights of cities and states to negotiate a strong contract and leaving cable incumbents in a bind.
Washington Post - December 20, 2006
Time to Call it In?FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell has slowed down AT&T's merger machine, but he hasn't stopped it. AT&T will resume haggling with the commission's two Democrats, but they'll come out with a compromise the telcos can live with.
Forbes - December 20, 2006
FCC Chairman only Able to Help Telcos Halfway this WeekApparently, it's more important for Martin to deliver the win to the telcos by pointing the finger at local governments, rather than own up to the FCC's and his own long and storied history of stifling competition in telecom markets.
TechDirt - December 20, 2006
AT&T-BellSouth Merger Faces Onerous ConditionsAT&T's $68 billion takeover of BellSouth will face a tough political climate in Washington in 2007 when Democrats take control of the Congress, virtually ensuring that the former Ma Bell will have to agree to some conditions.
Financial Times - December 19, 2006
McSlarrow: Martin a MicromanagerNational Cable & Telecommunications Association CEO Kyle McSlarrow said that he is "puzzled" by the "micromanagement" style of FCC Chairman Kevin Martin.
Multichannel News - December 19, 2006
Consumers Sidelined as Broadband Battles RageConsumers aren't just served by competition, but also by vigorous enforcement of consumer regulations. Ensuring that local towns and municipalities retain some control over the service provided to their citizens is a key element.
Consumer Affairs - December 19, 2006
The Right to CommunicateSaveTheInternet.com new video, "Save The Internet: Independence Day", is an example of how the Internet has become an important space for citizens and grass-roots groups to tell their stories in their own voices.
COA News - December 19, 2006
FCC Boss's Sleaze Doesn't Pay OffFCC Chairman Kevin Martin's underhanded attempt to force the AT&T-BellSouth merger through has fallen flat: An FCC commissioner has refused to play along with Martin and is refusing to cast a tie-breaking vote to OK the deal.
Computer World - December 19, 2006
Net Neutrality and What the Internet Will BecomeWith Net Neutrality, anybody with five bucks to pay their ISP can start their own web site, and be on an equal footing (technologically speaking) with the largest content provider. A tiered Internet is a bad idea that will come back to bite Big Media.
ITworld - December 19, 2006
Looking Back: Net Neutrality Derails Telecom ReformA little more than a year ago, the term Net Neutrality raised but the faintest of pings on the technology policy radar. A year later it had wrecked the ambitious telecom reform plans of the Republican majority.
Internet News - December 19, 2006
FCC's McDowell Stands By Recusal on Merger VoteFCC Commissioner Robert McDowell is standing by his recusal from the agency's AT&T-BellSouth merger vote, declining an invitation to break the 2-2 deadlock over the $80 billion deal hung up on Net Neutrality conditions.
Internet News - December 19, 2006
NCTA's McSlarrow Blasts FCC on Cable IssuesThe CEO of the National Cable & Telecommunications Association swiped at FCC Chairman Kevin Martin, saying there is a "disconnect between the rhetoric of free market and the types of proposals offered by the leadership" of the Commission.
TV Week - December 19, 2006
McDowell's Reservations on Voting in AT&T-BellSouth Merger Cheer Net Neutrality AdvocatesEven though he was intensively lobbied to participate in the AT&T-BellSouth vote by FCC Chairman Kevin Martin, Robert McDowell refused to do so. It's not common that regulators hold their ground in the face of regulatory approval.
ZDNet - December 19, 2006
FCC Commissioner to Sit Out AT&T VoteFCC Commissioner Robert McDowell has decided against voting on the AT&T-BellSouth merger. That leaves the other four commissioners -- two Republicans and two Democrats -- face to face and having to negotiate.
ars technica - December 19, 2006
The FCC Should Not Attempt a Run-Around of CongressTeletruth.org has filed several comments concerning the FCC's proposed cable franchise plan, saying the FCC should not consider giving the telcos more "freedoms." They should, instead, begin an investigation into fiber-optic services never received.
Teletruth.org - December 19, 2006
Life in the Slow Lane: A Guide to the Un-Neutral NetAfter more than a year of debate in Washington, the fate of Net Neutrality -- and with it the future of the Internet -- remains unresolved. The matter will be taken up again in 2007. At stake is nothing less than the future of the Internet.
Center for Digital Democracy - December 19, 2006
Many Reactions to McDowell's DecisionFCC Commissioner Robert McDowell's decision not to vote on the merger has generated many statements from other FCC Commissioners, telco and other industry officers, and consumer and media groups.
Benton Foundation - December 19, 2006
FCC Commissioner Takes High Road on AT&T Mega-MergerFCC Chairman Kevin Martin can no longer ram through approval of an $82 billion deal without first negotiating conditions with Commissioners Michael Copps and Jonathan Adelstein.
SavetheInternet.com - December 19, 2006
Virtuous NeutralityThe AT&T-BellSouth merger should not be approved unless there is a guarantee that AT&T will offer a level playing field to websites and online services, at least until their customers have more choices for high-speed Internet connections.
Los Angeles Times - December 19, 2006
FCC Official Won't Vote on AT&T-BellSouth MergerFCC Commissioner Robert McDowell said he wouldn't cast the tie-breaking vote on AT&T's proposed purchase of BellSouth, putting pressure on the companies to offer concessions.
Los Angeles Times - December 19, 2006
Cities, States and Nonprofits Line Up Against Martin's Video Franchise AgendaChances are that if the FCC decides to implement FCC Chairman Kevin Martin's ideas about video franchises, various groups will challenge the FCC's legal right to act on this issue.
Lasar's Letter - December 18, 2006
Imbalance in Net Speeds Impedes SharingThe information superhighway isn't truly equal in both directions. Cable and phone companies typically reserve the bulk of the bandwidth for downloading movies and other files and leave uploading content and file sharing in the slow lane.
Associated Press - December 18, 2006
FCC Tiebreaker on AT&T Deal Says He Won't VoteAT&T's $86 billion purchase of BellSouth hit a speed bump when the FCC Commissioner widely expected to break an agency impasse on the deal said he wouldn't vote.
San Antonio Express-News - December 18, 2006
FCC's Martin Takes on Local Governments in Cable Reform BidFCC Chairman Kevin Martin will issue a stark challenge to the authority of local governments to decide who has the right to offer television service to consumers.
MarketWatch - December 18, 2006
Michigan Video Franchise 'Reform': A License to Redline?Michigan's new law stripping municipalities of cable TV franchise authority opens the door for cable providers to deny service to "low value" neighborhoods in cities where they maintain franchises.
Callahan's Cleveland Diary - December 18, 2006
Free Press Commends Commissioner McDowell for Staying Out of AT&T-BellSouth VoteFree Press Executive Director Josh Silver applauded Commissioner McDowell's decision to stay out of the AT&T-BellSouth merger, saying, "He has put the public interest first and set the table for a consumer-friendly resolution of this merger."
Free Press - December 18, 2006
FCC Member Won't Break Tie on BellSouth-AT&T MergerThe FCC must try to break its stalemate on the huge AT&T-BellSouth deal without the tie-breaking vote of a fifth commissioner. Robert McDowell, who would have given Republicans a 3-2 majority on the issue, announced he would not join the debate.
Associated Press - December 18, 2006
FCC Preparing to Smooth the Way for TV Services by Phone CompaniesThe FCC is scheduled to vote on a measure that will give AT&T and Verizon an easy way to compete with cable companies for video franchising, despite opposition from various local and state authorities and a bill that didn't make it through Congress.
Information Week - December 18, 2006
FCC's McDowell Won't Break Tie on AT&T-BellSouth DealFCC member Robert McDowell refused to vote to break a deadlock over AT&T's $85 billion purchase of BellSouth, a new setback for the deal first announced in March.
Bloomberg News - December 18, 2006
Net Neutrality -- A Cosmic Battle for DemocracyA new Net Neutrality video takes an "Independence Day" theme, pitting good old-fashioned American values against the aliens who want to overrun our democracy in the ongoing battle for the future of the Internet. <i>(Video 3:59)</i>
SavetheInternet.com - December 18, 2006
YOU - Person of This Year but Next Year's Toast?Time's "Person(s) of the Year" are Internet users. But the magazine didn't talk about how our ability to post content on the Net is fragile and the telcos and cablecos that monopolize Internet access want 2007 to be the year not of Us, but of Them.
Huffington Post - December 18, 2006
Falsies on Parade: The Worst Spinners of 2006The Center for Media and Democracy has dannounce the winners of the coveted 2006 Falsies Awards, recognizing the most heinous polluters of the information environment over the past year. Fake News and astroturf Net Neutrality groups make the cut.
Center for Media and Democracy - December 18, 2006
Verizon, AT&T Lobby States for TV Licenses, Bypassing CongressThe phone companies are backing off a two-year push to get Congress to help them win a bigger chunk of the $68 billion cable-TV market. Instead, they're shifting their focus to state capitals as well as the FCC.
Bloomberg News - December 18, 2006
Time's Person of the Year Is You -- a Silicon Valley Fueled, Steak-Frite Eating YouIn announcing the Internet as their "Person of the Year," <i>Time's</i> view of the Web seems to be very centered on one place: Silicon Valley. Yet the actual point is it has gone far beyond the Valley and even the United States.
ReadWriteWeb - December 17, 2006
FCC to Vote on Cable Competition MeasureFCC Chairman Kevin Martin is using public resentment over rising cable prices to sell his proposal to give the telcos their video franchise ruling. But local franchising authorities contend his argument is bogus and will wind up hurting consumers.
Associated Press - December 17, 2006
FCC Aims to Help Telcos Offer TV Service FasterThe FCC this week hopes to do what Congress could not accomplish this year -- help AT&T and Verizon get into the television business faster. The Commission is slated to vote on a plan to limit local authorities' powers in negotiating video franchising.
Reuters - December 17, 2006
WSJ: Champion of the PoorA recent op-ed in the <i>Wall Street Journal</i> correctly reports that FCC Commissioners Michael Copps and Jonathan Adelstein object to the merger because they want to secure the protection of Net Neutrality. Then it gets everything else wrong.
News Corpse - December 16, 2006
Nothing Neutral About ItDoes it make sense to put just two businesses in charge of building infrastructure for everybody? That's the plan the telcos are fighting for -- being gatekeepers to the Internet which is fast becoming a utility. And it will fail.
Doc Searls Weblog - December 15, 2006
Michigan and FCC Take Up Franchise ReformHaving lost franchise reform on Capitol Hill, the telcos are counting on the FCC, which has scheduled a franchise vote for Dec. 20. And they are ramming through state franchise bills that often contain conflicting language that is heavily telco-friendly.
TV Technology - December 15, 2006
VoIP Subscribers Grow; Net Neutrality Bill DiesThe telcos could invest in technologies to solve the bandwidth issue. But keeping bandwidth artificially small will squeeze out VoIP service providers if Big Media succeeds in scrapping Net Neutrality.
Technology Review - December 15, 2006
When Is a Slap-Down a Slam-Dunk?The <i>Wall Street Journal</i> has attacked FCC Commissioners Copps and Adelstein for doing their jobs of serving the American people. They should consider the source of the attack -- a paper that caters to the rich -- and wear it proudly as a badge of ho
Huffington Post - December 15, 2006
What Should McDowell Do?The problem is if FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell participates in the AT&T-BellSouth merger vote, he will be under pressure to support his chairman, Kevin Martin, at least to some extent. If he doesn't participate, the merger could fail.
Technology Liberation Front - December 15, 2006
Feds Defend Approval of Telecom Mega-MergersThe U.S. Justice Department denied allegations that it fudged the analysis that prompted it to approve two telecom mega-mergers now under scrutiny by a federal judge.
CNet - December 15, 2006
The Governor and Net Neutrality in MichiganWith the passing of the Michigan video franchise bill, something new has been added to Gov. Jennifer Granholm's plate for next year: Net Neutrality.
Morning Sun - December 15, 2006
Stalemate Keeps AT&T-BellSouth Merger Off of FCC's AgendaFCC Chairman Kevin J. Martin doesn't know how soon the Commission would consider AT&T's proposed acquisition of BellSouth because of a continuing stalemate between Republican and Democratic members. One main obstacle: Net Neutrality.
Washington Post - December 15, 2006
Net Neutrality Is Critical for Youth ParticipationNet Neutrality is not just a geek thing, it's a generation thing. If we want to build a world where youth have a voice online, we have to keep the Net neutral.
MacArthur Foundation - December 15, 2006
Verizon Hits the Suburbs FirstVerizon has reached franchise agreements with 100 affluent municipalities in Pennsylvania for its fiber-optic cable TV. Not included in the initial rollout were urban areas such as Philadelphia, Chester, and Upper Darby.
Delco Times - December 15, 2006
To Kill an Internet...No solid protection of Net Neutrality allows access providers to carve out a path for the consumer to follow. Not only is that path inherently costly for the consumer, but trying to exit the path is even more so.
Web Pro News - December 14, 2006
AT&T Gets its Way at Michigan CapitolLocal governments vigorously opposed the Michigan video franchise bill. And, while changes were made at the last minute, this bill soon to be signed by Gov. Jennifer Granholm denudes local authority and representation in exchange for promises.
Lansing State Journal - December 14, 2006
Net ProfitsThe AT&T-BellSouth merger would create the largest telecom company in the world. And, because of a lack of permanent regulations, could likely pave the way to dismantling Net Neutrality.
Utne Reader - December 14, 2006
Person of the Year: YouThe Internet is a tool for bringing together the small contributions of millions of people and making them matter. Silicon Valley consultants call it Web 2.0, but it's really a revolution. So Internet users are <i>Time's</i> "Person of the Year."
Time Magazine - December 13, 2006
Vote on BellSouth Deal Omitted from Next FCC MeetingThe FCC decided not to vote on AT&T's $86 billion purchase of BellSouth at its Dec. 20 meeting, lessening the prospects for approval this month. But AT&T is still holding out hope for approval before the end of the year.
Bloomberg News - December 13, 2006
AT&T Merger Vote Unlikely until 2007The FCC said it won't vote on AT&T's merger with BellSouth at its Dec. 20 meeting, making it unlikely the telecom mega-merger will be approved by the end of the year.
San Antonio Express-News - December 13, 2006
FCC to Vote on Franchise ChangesFCC Chairman Kevin Martin scheduled a Dec. 20 vote on his plan to force local governments to sign cable service contracts with requesting phone companies within 90 days.
Multichannel News - December 13, 2006
Media ThreatTwo recent announcements that could dictate the very future of media slipped into the news stream amid the din of billion-dollar digital Internet deals and print media buyouts: The failure of the COPE Act and a new, free Web hosting service.
New York Press - December 13, 2006
Comcast Questions FCC’s EfficiencyComcast pointed out that the FCC's interest in speeding phone-company entry into local video markets seems to clash with the plodding pace at which the agency is reviewing pending cable requests for action.
Multichannel News - December 13, 2006
FCC Posts Agenda for Meeting on Dec. 20The FCC will hold its monthly meeting on Dec. 20. On the agenda: A Reprt and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding video franchising.
Federal Communications Commission - December 13, 2006
Citizen Groups Cry Foul over FCC VoteFive consumer and public-interest groups wrote the FCC opposing Commissioner Robert McDowell's participation in the AT&T-BellSouth merger. The FCC asked AT&T and BellSouth for their views on McDowell's participation but didn't ask for public input.
Internet News - December 13, 2006
Senate Passes Bill Sought by Telecom IndustryThe Michigan franchise bill allows existing franchises to cut new deals after Jan. 1, which could force municipalities to lose millions in revenues and raise costs for public access stations.
Media Mouse - December 13, 2006
New Era Arrives for Cable CustomersA Michigan mayor called the AT&T-backed Michigan video franchise bill a windfall for the telco and expects the company to target high-income areas with temporary low prices to rout out cable providers and establish its own monopoly.
Detroit Free Press - December 13, 2006
Microsoft Tells FCC What it Wants for ChristmasMicrosoft executives met with FCC Commissioners and staff over several days to outline a broad agenda for the future, including streamlining the video franchise process and easy access to "white spaces" for their unlicenced devices.
Lasar's Letter - December 12, 2006
Key Democrats Push to Keep FCC's McDowell Recused on MergerTwo influential Democrats increased pressure on Republican FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell to refrain from voting on the massive AT&T-BellSouth merger. They called the general counsel's finding "inadequate."
National Journal - December 12, 2006
Hill Democrats Reject FCC Lawyer's Reasoning in AT&T MergerReps. John Dingell (D-Mich.) and Edward Markey (D-Mass.) rejected FCC General Counsel Sam Feder's justification of his move to allow FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell to waive a potential conflict of interest and take part in the AT&T-BellSouth merger vote
MarketWatch - December 12, 2006
Michigan Governor's Statement on Net NeutralityAfter the passage of the Michigan video franchise bill, Gov. Jennifer Granholm said she supports Net Neutrality and will continue to fight for it on the state and federal level.
Michigan Liberal - December 12, 2006
Michigan Lawmakers Send Video Franchising Bill to GovernorThe lame duck Republican Michigan legislature cleared to the governor legislation that would streamline the state's video franchising rules. State Sen. Patricia Birkholz urged her colleagues to examine the Net Neutrality issue next session.
National Journal - December 12, 2006
The 'Danger' of Net NeutralityNet Neutrality ensures that all users can access the content or run the applications and devices of their choice. With Net Neutrality, the network's only job is to move data -- not choose which data to privilege with higher quality service.
eBusiness Connection - December 12, 2006
Net Censorship Violates Network NeutralityNet Discrimination is discrimination based on origin, destination, type of content, contents of content, originating and/or destination application, etc. Whether a government does it or a company, it still violates Net Neutrality.
Isen Blog - December 12, 2006
Michigan Senate Passes Video Franchise BillThe Michigan state Senate passed a video franchise bill that does not include Net Neutrality provisions that would prevent telecoms and cablecos from prioritizing Internet traffic in favor of higher-paying Web sites.
Associated Press - December 12, 2006
What Happened on Net NeutralityThe Michigan Video Franchise Bill passed. And although Governor Granholm supports Net Neutrality, a veto is probably unrealistic. AT&T's promises were too tempting for a majority of Michigan legislators.
Michigan Liberal - December 12, 2006
Congress Fails to Pass Net Neutrality BillCongress' failure to pass the broadband bill shows the public support behind Net Neutrality. If lawmakers ignore the issue, it will be at their peril.
IDG News Service - December 12, 2006
Ted Stevens Loses Net Neutrality FightNext year, Big Media will be back with more money and more astroturf groups to advance their quest to be the broadband gatekeepers. But the public is better informed now, and Congress should craft legislation that helps consumers, not just the industry.
Broadband Reports - December 12, 2006
Alaska's Stevens Left Out in the ColdAs lawmakers called it quits this weekend, Sen. Ted Steven's (R-Alaska) quest to overhaul America's telecom laws ended in failure. Meanwhile, proponents of so-called "net neutrality" are not only rejoicing, but taking credit for derailing the bill.
Forbes - December 12, 2006
Are People Going to Take Back their Airwaves?Playlists being controlled by media owners is nothing new. The real question is, are the people going to take back their airwaves?
Sharon Cobb - December 12, 2006
More on MyDD Net Neutrality ThingIt is true that the Telecoms have an insanely powerful lobby, but let's give the new Democrats in Congress a chance to address this important issue at the national level.
Capital Viewpoint - December 12, 2006
Michigan Video Franchise Bill Teaches Lesson on PowerPolitics is about power, and it's important to realize that or else we will get suckered. The federal government may have punted on giving the telcos what they want for video franchising, but we have to fight them in every state every time.
MyDD - December 12, 2006
Cable TV Bill Goes to Michigan Senate Without Net NeutralityThe Michigan video franchise bill is headed for a final state Senate vote today without wording that would address abrogation of current franchise agreements with local governments or tackle the issue of Net Neutrality.
Gongwer News Service - December 12, 2006
New Hope for Net Neutrality as Stevens Telecom Bill DiesWith the new Congress a new Telecommunications Act should look quite a bit different. But having the Democrats in power is no guarantee that consumer-friendly Internet legislation will be passed.
ars technica - December 11, 2006
Michigan & Net NeutralityThe Michigan Video Franchise Bill comes to a vote on Dec. 12. Call your State Senators and Gov. Granholm and ask them to stop this bill.
Shekkara Blog - December 11, 2006
Congress Leaves Reform in the Cold; FCC Keeps Merger HotCongress adjourned without progress on any sweeping telecom reform or a national video franchising legislation. But FCC Chairman Kevin Martin kept the fires burning with new maneuvers that could lead to the approval of the AT&T-BellSouth merger.
Telcom Web - December 11, 2006
FCC Continues its Deliberations on the AT&T-BellSouth MergerEven though FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell has been given a green light to participate in the AT&T-BellSouth merger vote, he urged his fellow FCC commissioners to resolve their differences on their own.
Information Week - December 11, 2006
Martin Pushes 90-Day Shot Clock for Video FranchisesCities and towns would have 90 days to act on cable franchise applications filed by their local phone companies, according to proposal unveiled by FCC Chairman Kevin Martin. Martin would like to see it come to a vote at the Dec. 20 FCC meeting.
Multichannel News - December 11, 2006
Lucent Pushes for BellSouth MergerAlcatel-Lucent weighed in on the AT&T-BellSouth merger by urging the FCC not only to approve the merger, but to do so this month and without any new Net Neutrality conditions.
Broadcasting & Cable - December 11, 2006
Net Neutrality Proponents Claim Victory, Prepare for Next BattleThe COPE Act of 2006 died when the 109th Congress came to a close. A broad coalition that has been arguing for federal laws to protect the Internet as a level playing field for all is gearing up to continue the fight for Net Neutrality.
Information Week - December 11, 2006
States Having Trouble Withstanding Pressure from Corporate LobbiesIt's still difficult to pass Net Neutrality protections, and it looks like it will be difficult at the state level because officials aren't able to withstand pressure from corporate lobbies.
MyDD - December 11, 2006
FCC Chief Puts the Fix in for the AT&T-BellSouth DealAnyone who believes that the FCC cares about anything other than ensuring maximum profits for AT&T and friends is living under a delusion. The agency cleared a commissioner to vote on the AT&T-BellSouth merger despite a clear conflict of interest.
Computer World - December 11, 2006
BellSouth-AT&T Merger: Empirical EvidenceA new study finds the approval of the mergers in the past has clearly led to losses for the American consumer, and that the approval of the AT&T-BellSouth merger is not in the public interest.
Isen Blog - December 11, 2006
Morgan Freeman's Internet IssuesNew, faster broadband services promise to be lots of fun and hold promise for economic development and education as well. But until we make sure that these Internet services work to the benefit of everyone, that promise will never be fulfilled.
TomPaine.com - December 11, 2006
Net Neutrality Legislation Will Be Good for E-businessThe inherent online culture is about giving everyone a fair shot at success -- that's called Net Neutrality. On the Internet, small-business owners play fair, work hard, and can get ahead. But this model is being challenged by phone and cable companies.
Optimize Magazine - December 11, 2006
Behind the Anti-Net Neutrality CampaignAnti-Net Neutrality ads are airing several times a day in Madison, Wis., on every channel hosted by the cable TV system run by Charter Communications.
New Median - December 11, 2006
The People's FCCFCC Chairman Kevin Martin is trying to remove the ethical constraints on one of his commissioners in order to win a vote on an issue of national concern. The chairman's action is wrong, and the FCC staff should have the backbone to block it.
Seattle Times - December 10, 2006
FCC Commissioner Can Break Tie in AT&T-BellSouth MergerThe FCC lawyer who paved the way for Commissioner Robert McDowell to break the deadlock on the AT&T-BellSouth merger was criticized by a consumer group for being more concerned about pleasing the companies involved than about responding to the public.
CNet - December 10, 2006
AT&T and BellSouth Respond to Challenge Based on GAO Competition StudyAT&T and BellSouth have filed statements with the FCC responding to charges that a new report issued by the Government and Accountability Office weakens its case for a merger of the two corporations.
Lasar's Letter - December 9, 2006
FCC Official Cleared to Vote on AT&T DealThe FCC's general counsel authorized a commissioner with a potential conflict of interest to break a deadlock over AT&T's purchase of BellSouth. Reps. John D. Dingell (D-Mich.) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) question Martin's move.
Los Angeles Times - December 9, 2006
FCC Commissioner Can Vote on AT&TFCC Commissioner Robert M. McDowell will be permitted to cast the tie-breaking vote on the proposed acquisition of BellSouth by AT&T, the agency's general counsel said.
Reuters - December 9, 2006
Pricing Lies Continue as Bell Labs DiesAlthough FCC Chairman Kevin Martin says that competition is "desperately needed in the video market," the AT&T-BellSouth merger will significantly reduce competition and further hurt an ailing U.S. market. DSL prices are going up, not down.
ISP Planet - December 8, 2006
Republicans Push FCC on Merger VoteOn the same day that the FCC's general counsel cleared FCC Republican Commissioner Robert McDowell to vote on the AT&T-BellSouth Merger, a group of 14 Republican Senators urged the commission to vote on the merger at its Dec. 20 meeting.
Broadcasting & Cable - December 8, 2006
FCC: McDowell Can Vote on AT&T-BellsouthThe FCC's top lawyer authorized one of its members to vote on the proposed merger of AT&T and BellSouth, despite an apparent conflict of interest.
Associated Press - December 8, 2006
FCC Ignores Ethics to Speed AT&T MergerAt the request of FCC Chairman Kevin Martin, the FCC general counsel cleared Commissioner Robert McDowell to vote on the proposed merger of AT&T and BellSouth. Free Press Executive Director Josh Silver calls Martin's tactic "a new low for the FCC."
Free Press - December 8, 2006
Huge Victory for Real People as Telco Bill DiesThe gavel has fallen on the 109th Congress marking a stunning victory for real people who want to retain control of the Internet. But the fight for Net Neutrality has only begun.
SavetheInternet.com - December 8, 2006
Bad Telecom Legislation Defeated with End of 109th CongressThe SavetheInternet.com Coalition, the broad alliance of groups that mobilized millions of citizens to defend the free and open Internet, hailed the demise of telecom legislation in the 109th Congress that failed to protect Network Neutrality.
Free Press - December 8, 2006
Time for a Bold Public Interest Media-Telecom AgendaThere must be a major push in Congress and the marketplace to advance a comprehensive agenda that will require broadband content non-discrimination and invest in diverse digital content services designed to foster news and public affairs.
Digital Destiny - December 8, 2006
AT&T, BellSouth OK with FCC's McDowell VoteAT&T and BellSouth may have no objection to FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell voting on their merger, but incoming Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) is dismayed that Chairman Kevin Martin has not worked to resolve the impasse.
Reuters - December 8, 2006
Deliberate Discrimination: Intent Is KeyWe need to understand how Net discrimination works, and we need to develop a body of case law to help us figure out where the lines are -- but it's not the main show. We need to find out why the discrimination happened and follow the money trail.
Isen Blog - December 8, 2006
Lies, Damn Lies, and Cable Rate IncreasesDespite the fact that cable prices are still increasing even in areas where there is a "choice" between a cableco or a telco, FCC Chairman Kevin Martin is trying to eliminate basic consumer protection requirements in video franchise agreements.
HearUsNow.org - December 7, 2006
Michigan Cable TV Franchise Bill Set for Vote Dec. 12Legislation changing Michigan's cable franchise system is now set for a vote Dec. 12. Several major issues are still unresolved in HB 6456, including Net Neutrality and abrogation of current franchise agreements with local governments.
Gongwer News Service - December 7, 2006
Michigan Cable Franchise Bill Sparks OutcryMichigan Municipal League officials say that while AT&T claims increased competition could lower prices, the telecom giant fails to explain that it could deny service to poor areas and cause financial hardship to others if the video franchise bill passes.
Saginaw News - December 7, 2006
The First Amendment of the InternetAnyone who values free speech might want to think about what Internet freedom really means. Don't allow yourself to believe the Net Neutrality battle is one you can afford to ignore. It's not.
Mikal in Philly Blog - December 7, 2006
FTC Gets Involved in Net NeutralityThe Federal Trade Commission will hold a two-day workshop Feb. 13-14, on "Broadband Connectivity Competition Policy," which includes potential consumer protection issues like Net Neutrality.
Broadcasting & Cable - December 7, 2006
New Congress Turns Hostile to Ma Bell’s Man at the FCCFCC Chairman Kevin Martin is trying to push through a series of Internet and media rulings before the Democratic Congress gains oversight of his agency. Tens of thousands of Internet freedom activists are taking action to stop Martin's plans.
SavetheInternet.com - December 7, 2006
National Industry Front Groups and Lobbying Firms Campaigning for Michigan Cable LegislationAT&T is working with the national lobbying firm that has a history of working with large corporations, industry front groups, and conservative causes like the Federalist Society, the Walt Disney Co., and the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth.
Media Mouse - December 7, 2006
A Not-So-Merry Christmas for the FCCThe FCC has had a fairly easy ride for the past few years. As the recent collection of letters from incoming congressional leaders indicates, that's over. But unless Congress is willing to pass legislation, the AT&T deal will go through.
Public Knowledge - December 7, 2006
Martin Gets Support for McDowell Recusal Query from RepublicansThe current chairmen of the House Energy & Commerce Committee and its Telecom Subcommittee have weighed in with support for FCC's Chairman Kevin Martin's exploration of whether Commissioner Robert McDowell can vote on the AT&T-Bell South merger.
Broadcasting & Cable - December 7, 2006
FCC May Ease Way for Telecoms to Sell TVFCC Chairman Kevin Martin said he has circulated a proposal to the other four commissioners to require local authorities to decide within 90 days on some phone-company applications to offer TV in competition with cable providers.
Bloomberg News - December 7, 2006
Framing Net Neutrality RightIt is in the telcos' and cablecos' interest to keep Net Neutrality amorphous and indefinable. But we do know what Net Neutrality is. Just read the work of those who want to define it, not the people who stand to profit from ambiguity.
Isen Blog - December 6, 2006
FCC Chairman Outlines BroadbandHaving waited for cable-franchising legislation to fizzle on Capitol Hill before going public with his own plan, FCC Chairman Kevin Martin wants to pressure cities and towns to finalize video franchise agreements without any leverage in negotiations.
Federal Communications Commission - December 6, 2006
Martin Pushing 90-Day Franchise ClockCities and towns would have 90 days to act on cable-franchise applications filed by their local phone companies, according to a proposal unveiled by FCC Chairman Kevin Martin.
Multichannel News - December 6, 2006
FCC's McDowell Cleared by Virginia Bar for AT&T VoteThe Virginia State Bar has removed another obstacle to the FCC vote on the AT&T-BellSouth merger, stating it would always defer to the ethics rules of the federal government. Commissioner Robert McDowell now needs to hear from the FCC general counsel.
MarketWatch - December 6, 2006
Lawmakers Question FCC Recusal ManeuverKey Democratic lawmakers leveled sharp criticism at FCC Chairman Kevin Martin's efforts to break the agency's deadlock over approval of the AT&T-BellSouth merger.
Internet News - December 6, 2006
How the 21st Century Robber Barons OperateThe Bell monopoly is the most destructive economic roadblock of our time. It has caused the United States to fall behind the rest of the world in broadband. And both the urban and rural poor are manipulated to maintain the monopoly.
Dana Blankenhorn Blog - December 6, 2006
On Building a Progressive Governing Coalition Around Net NeutralityOne would think that Net Neutrality is a no-brainer for the Democratic caucus. But the telcos and cablecos have invested serious money in non-white ethnic groups, and they are going to be a key roadblock in federal and state Net Neutrality legislation.
MyDD - December 6, 2006
Latest Washington Ethics Scandal: FCC Chairman Martin and the AT&T MergerRather than negotiate in good faith, FCC Chairman Martin -- led by the nose by AT&T -- has resorted to unethical, strong-arm tactics, ordering FCC lawyers to determine if McDowell may vote.
Huffington Post - December 6, 2006
Fight Heats Up Over Tie-Breaking AT&T-BellSouth VoteThe flap over whether FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell can be allowed to vote in favor of the AT&T-BellSouth merger is heating up since he indicated his willingness to participate in the regulator's approval process.
Telecom Web News - December 6, 2006
Committee Sends Cable Bill to State Senate, but More Work RemainsThe Senate Government Operations Committee unanimously sent the video franchising bill to the full Senate, which is expected to vote next Tuesday. But big issues were unresolved -- among them Net Neutrality and existing franchise agreements.
Associated Press - December 6, 2006
Michigan Gains Two New Allies in Net Neutrality FightAfter being bounced from one committee to another, the Michigan video franchise bill is finally headed to the state Senate for a floor vote next week. Unfortunately for AT&T, things aren't going quite as smoothly as they might have hoped.
Michigan Liberal - December 6, 2006
Mixed Views Expressed on Michigan Cable Franchise BillThe Michigan video franchise bill could hurt cities and towns. Franchise fees that now go directly to municipalities would filter through the state -- but the mechanisms for dispersement are not clearly outlined in the bill.
Cadillac News - December 6, 2006
Top Democrats Question Move by FCC Chairman on Telecom DealSen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) wrote FCC Chairman Kevin Martin and Rep. John Dingell (D-Mich.) sent a letter to the FCC's general counsel about Martin's move to unrecuse Commissioner Robert McDowell for the AT&T-BellSouth merger vote
Associated Press - December 6, 2006
Michigan Video Franchise Bill Clears State Senate CommitteeThe Michigan video franchise bill, H.B. 6456, has passed out of one state Senate committee and has been referred to another with no Net Neutrality provision. The state Senate Government Operations Committee could act on it as early as today.
National Journal - December 6, 2006
Verizon Expanding Fiber OpticsVerizon said it would make its new fiber-optic telecom network available to three million additional homes per year in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, competing directly with Comcast.
Philadelphia Inquirer - December 5, 2006
McDowell May Vote on AT&T-BellSouth MergerIt's beginning to look a lot like Christmas for AT&T, as the FCC may approve the telco's merger with BellSouth with fewer concessions than even the carrier itself expected.
Light Reading - December 5, 2006
Michigan Video Bill Should Go DownThe passing of the Michigan video franchise bill is another step in direction of destroying Net Neutrality and allowing corporations to control what is seen and not seen online. The Michigan Senate should vote this one down.
Michigan Journal - December 5, 2006
FCC Chair Schemes to Undermine Net NeutralityFCC Chairman Kevin Martin is now attacking the basic structures of the FCC in order to deliver favorable policy for the very corporations he hopes will someday be his political benefactors when he runs for governor of North Carolina.
The Nation - December 5, 2006
AT&T Says Won't Need Fiber-to-the-Home NetworkDesite warnings that its new U-Verse system will need upgrading, AT&T shrugged off concerns that it would need to build a more expensive, all-fiber network to handle an expected surge in high-speed Internet and video traffic.
Reuters - December 5, 2006
Markey, Dingell Probe Possible McDowell VoteRep. John Dingell (D- Mich.) and Rep. Ed Markey (D- Mass.) have asked the FCC's general counsel to provide information on how he will decide whether or not to give FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell the go-ahead to vote on the AT&T-Bell South merger.
Broadcasting & Cable - December 5, 2006
In Defense of a Democratic WebThe elimination of Net Neutrality would severely limit your right to access the information you want, in the manner that you want and without interference from companies that had nothing to do with the invention of the Internet or the World Wide Web.
Daily Texan - December 5, 2006
FCC's McDowell Touts Free Markets to AnalystsThe "twin cornerstones" of democracy are free markets and free reign for ideas, FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell said to a room full of Wall Street analysts attending the annual Credit Suisse Media and Telecom Week conference.
TV Week - December 5, 2006
FCC Honcho Tries to Ram Through AT&T-BellSouth DealFCC Chief Kevin Martin is so desperate to ram through the AT&T-BellSouth merger that he's resorting to underhanded, semi-ethical, hardball tactics -- but he still might not win.
Computer World - December 5, 2006
FCC Chairman Wants to Break AT&T-BellSouth LockFCC Chairman Kevin Martin's legal maneuvering to get the AT&T-BellSouth merger approved by seeking to unrecuse Republican Commissioner Robert McDowell drew immediate ire.
Internet News - December 5, 2006
Michigan Senate Committee Prepares to Vote on Video Franchise BillThe Michigan video franchise bill could be voted on in the state Senate as early as today after the Energy and Technology Committee finalizes its recommendations.
State News - December 5, 2006
Net Neutrality More Important than EverWith the Democrats in charge, strongly worded Net Neutrality legislation is needed to ensure that everyone, from the biggest corporation to the smallest personal blogger, retains equal access to the Internet.
PR Web - December 5, 2006
Telecom Regulation: High Water MarkIt's too late to undo the telecom deals of the last few years, but the FCC and Congress can change the regulatory climate.
Business Week - December 4, 2006
Markey Balks at AT&T-BellSouth Merger"Forcing a Commissioner to participate in a proceeding in which he or she would otherwise be recused is an extraordinary notion for an independent, impartial regulatory agency," Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) said in a statement.
Office of Rep. Edward Markey - December 4, 2006
McDowell Plans to Consult Virginia Bar on Participation in Merger ReviewBefore deciding on a final course of action, FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell plans to consult with the Virginia Bar if the FCC permits him to participate in its review of the AT&T-BellSouth deal.
National Journal - December 4, 2006
Lawmakers Need Time on Cable Franchise BillThere are several thorny issues in the Michigan video franchise bill, including build-out requirements and franchise fees to municipalities badly in need of revenue. Lawmakers should wait until next year and give the issue proper study and debate.
Kalamazoo Gazette - December 4, 2006
Lawmakers Work on Cable Legislation in LansingMichigan lawmakers this week will continue debating legislation that would ease providers' entry into the cable TV market. A vote could reach the Senate floor later in the week.
Associated Press - December 4, 2006
FCC Shopping for AT&T's Christmas PresentWhen FCC Chairman Kevin Martin talks about an "impasse," what he's really saying is the AT&T-BellSouth merger must come with permission for its partners get full Internet performance while other Internet users suffer some form of degradation.
Isen Blog - December 4, 2006
FCC Chairman's Attempt to Break AT&T-BellSouth Merger Stalemate Meets ResistanceFCC chairman Kevin Martin's attempt to break a voting stalemate on AT&T's acquisition of BellSouth is drawing resistance from the two Democratic commissioners on the FCC as well as from at least one consumer organization.
Information Week - December 4, 2006
FCC May Ask Commissioner with Conflict to Break Tie on AT&T-BellSouth MergerMoving to break a deadlock over approval of AT&T's purchase of BellSouth, the chairman of the FCC said he will ask a recused commissioner to cast the tie-breaking vote.
USA Today - December 4, 2006
FCC Chairman Moves to Break AT&T DeadlockDeclaring an "impasse" on AT&T's proposed acquisition of BellSouth, FCC Chairman Kevin Martin cleared the way for a commissioner who had disqualified himself from the deliberations to break the deadlock.
Associated Press - December 4, 2006
AT&T Promotes Cable Bill with Promises of Jobs, Lower BillsAT&T says that for every day that the Michigan video franchise bill is not passed, cable subscribers lose $1.8 million. But this amount represents the franchise fees the cablecos pay to the municipalities -- important public revenue for a troubled state.
Media Mouse - December 4, 2006
CDT Works to Undermine the Public Interest in Broadband -- Allies with PFFMissing from a brief filed jointly by the Center for Democracy and Technology and the Progress and Freedom Foundation is any discussion of the regulatory areas for broadband that will require federal policy -- including Net Neutrality.
Digital Destiny - December 4, 2006
Net Neutrality Update -- Markey's BackNet Neutrality champion Ed Markey will take the reins of the House Telecom and Internet Subcommittee. His welcome announcement comes as the Government Accountability Office issued a new report finding less telecom competition out there than we thought.
TPM Cafe - December 4, 2006
Why Network Neutrality Will Be Law in 2007One of the first technology controversies that the new Democratic Congress will address when it meets in February 2007 will be Net Neutrality. Legislators will support new regulation -- they tried in this Congress, and they'll succeed in the next.
Huffington Post - December 4, 2006
Verizon Cable Trying to Avoid Wiring South JerseySince a state franchise bill was passed in New Jersey, not only is Verizon backpedaling on its duty to provide service throughout South Jersey, as set forth in the law, but cable bills are continuing to rise.
Courier-Post - December 3, 2006
Congress Likely to Hang Up on ’06 Telecom ReformLobbyists have all but given up on the 2006 telecom legislation. Even the bill's most ardent backer, Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), has little hope of it passing in the "Lame Duck" session.
Los Angeles Times - December 3, 2006
Martin Seeks to Unleash McDowellFCC Chairman Kevin Martin asked the agency's general counsel to determine if wrapping up AT&T-BellSouth merger would outweigh Commissioner Robert McDowell's conflict-of-interest justifications for refusing to vote on the deal.
Multichannel News - December 3, 2006
Action Needed to Preserve Public Access and Net Neutrality in MichiganThe Michigan State Senate will soon vote on a bad bill that would allow large corporations like AT&T to overlook needy communities, ignore consumers and gut Net Neutrality. The bill is a dream for AT&T but a nightmare for Michigan residents.
Media Mouse - December 3, 2006
The FCC's Role in Boosting Phone Companies' TV AspirationsTrying to spur competition and beat back cable TV prices, FCC Chairman Kevin Martin has proposed rules to make it easier for phone companies and others to jump into the video business.
USA Today - December 2, 2006
FCC Chairman Moves to End AT&T-BellSouth ImpasseFCC Chairman Kevin Martin has sought a ruling that could permit a recused commissioner to cast a tie-breaking vote allowing AT&T to acquire BellSouth.
Reuters - December 2, 2006
FCC Chairman Moves to End AT&T ImpasseThe chairman of the FCC moved to break an impasse over approval of AT&T's purchase of BellSouth by trying to force a commissioner who recused himself to cast the tie-breaking vote.
Los Angeles Times - December 2, 2006
AT&T Dangles $620 Million, New JobsAT&T played the trump card in its push for a dramatic revision of Michigan's video franchise regulations: the promise of a $620 million investment and 2,000 new jobs in the next three years.
Detroit News - December 1, 2006
Net Neutrality Takes a Giant Step ForwardThe first step toward protecting Net Neutrality has been taken with the appointment of Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) to chair the House Telecom and Internet subcommittee. But the challenges remain formidable with Blue Dog Democrats who favor corporations.
Enclave - December 1, 2006
FCC Chief Seeks to Break Tie on AT&T- BellSouth Merger RulingFCC Chairman Kevin Martin has asked for a legal ruling on whether a recused commissioner could cast a tie-breaking vote on AT&T's proposed acquisition of BellSouth.
Reuters - December 1, 2006
FCC Loves Its TelcoTVThe FCC is planning to use an upcoming report on high cable prices to establish that satellite and cable providers exist in a "cozy duopoly" and that streamlining the video franchise system for telcos would speed up TV competition.
Broadband Reports - December 1, 2006
FCC Hopes to Speed Phone Companies' Entry into TVFederal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin Martin is circulating to other commissioners proposed rules to make it easier for phone companies and others to jump into the video business.
USA Today - December 1, 2006
2006 in Review: Mapping the New Media LandscapeAmid all the changes to the media landscape, one thing is clear: The Internet has moved itself squarely into the living room -- and, in the process, found itself at the epicenter of competitive and legislative battles.
E-Commerce News - December 1, 2006
Broadcaster Positions Shift Based on Who’s Getting MoneyMaking it more expensive for people to see their content hardly seems like a good strategy to increase viewership, but that is what Canadian broadcasters are advocating. They want to charge cable and satellite companies for their content.
Tech and Science News Updates - December 1, 2006
Is Battle over Net Neutrality a Rerun?A nationwide movement to keep Net Neutrality is one of the most hotly debated and heavily lobbied issues in Washington. Net Neutrality advocate Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), draws his experience from fighting the cablecos in Oregon in the 1990's.
Oregonian - December 1, 2006
Net Neutrality not a Neutral SubjectNet Neutrality advocates look to 2007 to continue their fight to keep access to the Internet equal and the content free from corporate gatekeepers.
Daily Egyptian - December 1, 2006
Party in Memphis: You Are All InvitedOn January 11 in Memphis, many of the more than 6,000 bloggers, YouTubers, Politicians, musicians, celebrities, activists and citizens who form the core of SavetheInternet.com Coalition will party in Memphis. Everyone is invited.
SavetheInternet.com - November 30, 2006
No 'Rubber Stamp' on Telecom Mergers, Judge SaysA federal judge continued to press the Department of Justice to explain why he should approve twin mergers involving some of the nation's largest telephone companies, but did not say when he will make a final decision.
CNet - November 30, 2006
From the Eye of the Dragon - Save the Internet!What would happen if one day you woke up, tried logging onto your favorite website and instead saw an error message saying that you had been denied access? It could happen. Cable companies and telcos are attempting to privatize the Internet.
Pro Wrestling - November 30, 2006
Telecom Companies Battle It Out in MichiganCiting the importance of Net Neutrality, Google executives came out against a Michigan cable franchising bill, arguing the bill should include prohibitions on Internet carriers charging Web sites higher prices for speedier access.
Booth Newspapers - November 30, 2006
AT&T Attempts to Lure Michigan Senators with Promises of InvestmentAT&T tried to increase pressure on Michigan lawmakers to pass a bill making it easier for the company to compete in the cable TV business.
Associated Press - November 30, 2006
Markey Takes Telecom Panel Over Committee ChairmanshipRep. Ed Markey (D-Mass.), who has a long history of interest in media issues and strongly supports Net Neutrality, has decided to head the House Energy and Commerce Committee's telecom panel rather than take the chairmanship of a full house committee.
TV Week - November 30, 2006
A Plea: Don't Overthrow King ContentGoogle and News Corp. have the right idea in gathering and packaging Internet content. But the potential for abuse is enormous. If there are gatekeepers at every turn, those choices will decrease.
Web Pro News - November 30, 2006
2006: Year of the FranchiseWhen service providers reflect on 2006, they might well see it as the year of the Bell video franchise, punctuated by months of back-and-forth over Net Neutrality.
XChange Magazine - November 30, 2006
Why Didn’t LULAC’s Wilkes Disclose Group’s Links to Comcast & AT&T?The author of a recent op-ed in the <i>San Jose Mercury News</i> claiming Net Neutrality would harm the Hispanic and other underserved minority communities failed to disclose that his organization receives funding from Comcast and AT&T.
Digital Destiny - November 30, 2006
FCC Private Briefing for Investors CriticizedA small group of clients of Bank of America got an exclusive briefing from top-ranking staff of the FCC at a hotel a block away from agency headquarters. Topics included the AT&T-BellSouth merger and Net Neutrality, but the public and the media were exclu
Associated Press - November 30, 2006
Legislators Must Do More Work on Much-Needed Cable MeasureThe Michigan "lame duck" Legislature must act responsibly and not give away the store to what is ostensibly a "market grab" by AT&T at the expense of local funding and programming, buildout requirements, or Net Neutrality.
Oakland Press - November 30, 2006
AT&T Completes BellSouth Takeover after 4-0 FCC VoteAT&T completed its $86 billion purchase of BellSouth after federal regulators cleared the way for the U.S. telephone industry's biggest takeover ever.
Bloomberg News - November 29, 2006
Net Neutrality Goes StatesideAs Michigan's state legislature was preparing to sail a local cable bill through, Net Neutrality proponents laid their concerns on the steps of the Capitol.
Web Pro News - November 29, 2006
Battle for Internet Freedom Moves to the StatesWhile this past year, AT&T and Verizon pursued both national and state legislation, they now seem determined to focus on state legislation as a way to bypass Net Neutrality requirements. We need to break the phone/Internet duopoly.
Huffington Post - November 29, 2006
Murdoch 'Appalled' at Broadband LagRupert Murdoch blasted the state of broadband in Australia, calling the available speeds a "disgrace," and called for lower taxes so young businesses have a chance to form and grow.
New Zealand Herald - November 29, 2006
Suburbs Fight for Cable TV TurfThe "Michigan Video Franchise Bill," as written, would benefit huge corporations at the expense of consumers, cost communities millions of dollars a year in franchise fees and jeopardize cable access shows.
Detroit News - November 29, 2006
Google Enters Debate on Cable MeasureInternet search giant Google is using its newfound state residency to launch its first full-court lobbying press in Lansing, Mich., to include Net Neutrality in a state video franchising bill.
Lansing State Journal - November 29, 2006
Google, Michigan Protesters Lobby For 'Net Neutrality'The Michigan bill will allow telecoms to sidestep consumer protections, cherry-pick which communities get high-speed broadband and video services, and ignore principles of Net Neutrality.
Media Post - November 29, 2006
Data Collection, Interactive Marketing and Digital Redlining: BewareAn emerging issue to be aware of is how marketers, advertisers and others may use online tracking technologies, such as behavioral targeting, to "screen" out consumers they consider "undesirable."
Digital Destiny - November 28, 2006
AT&T Isn't Sure About the BellSouth DealAnyone doubting AT&T CEO Ed Whitacre's willingness to let the BellSouth deal die should review the last two month's actions in D.C. Delaying the deal until after the election was a real risk that could have been avoided.
ISP Planet - November 28, 2006
Net Neutrality Debate Moves to MichiganOpponents of a measure in Michigan to overhaul the state's video franchising rules have thrown a new wrinkle into their argument. Debate over the measure now has shifted to how it will allow high-speed Internet operators to treat online content.
National Journal - November 28, 2006
No Slam Dunk for Net NeutralityWe shouldn't rush to any conclusions about how Net Neutrality will play out next year, when the Democrats take over Congress. Some of the factors involved aren't yet known and some of the old politics are still in play.
TPM Cafe - November 28, 2006
Comcast to Raise Cable TV RatesComcast cable TV customers will be charged higher rates beginning Jan. 1, raising the cost of its cable service an average of 3.2 percent. Verizon also plans an increase.
Delco Times - November 28, 2006
Walled Garden Not Going AwayThe YouTube-Verizon deal shows that the wireless carriers will continue to maintain an iron-fist like control over their networks. When a brand as big as YouTube has to fall on its knees and play ball with Verizon, what chance do others have?
GigaOM - November 28, 2006
Google, Others Criticize Michigan Cable TV BillGoogle and a coalition of other groups urged Michigan state lawmakers to back Net Neutrality and keep providers that run networks from discriminating against Web traffic based on which sites pay the most in the "Michigan Video Franchise Bill."
Associated Press - November 28, 2006
Michigan Residents Shoot Down AT&T’s Lame Duck BillAt a rally inside the State Capitol more than 50 members of the SavetheInternet.com Coalition joined local Michigan groups to speak out against a "lame duck" vote on the "Michigan Video Franchising Bill."
SavetheInternet.com - November 28, 2006
More on Michigan's Video Franchise BillMichigan's "video franchise bill" HB 6456 will be discussed in the state Senate Technology and Energy Committee tomorrow. Meetings are open to the public.
Capital Viewpoint - November 28, 2006
Supreme Court Case on Baby Bells May Affect Antitrust EnforcementIn a case with implications for antitrust enforcement, the Supreme Court heard arguments on how specific a plaintiff's allegations must be to claim anticompetitive behavior.
Wall Street Journal - November 28, 2006
Phone Firms' TV Market Bid May Skip CongressThe fight for Net Neutrality goes local. The battleground shifting from Washington -- where the telecom bill is DOA -- to the states, where AT&T and Verizon lobbyists are finding a more eager political climate for their bad bills.
Los Angeles Times - November 28, 2006
AT&T's Campaign for CompromiseDiscussions have reached a critical stage between merger partners AT&T and BellSouth and the Democrats in Washington who have held up approval of the companies' $79.3 billion deal.
Business Week - November 28, 2006
There Is a Utopia for Net NeutralityUTOPIA, the acronym for the Utah Telecommunication Open Infrastructure Agency, is a group of 14 cities which banded together to build a fiber-to-the-home network that will eventually provide 100 mbps service and be Net neutral.
Public Knowledge - November 28, 2006
U.S. Copyright Office Issues Telecom Ruling Concerning Open Wireless NetworksThe U.S. Copyright Office has issued a major opinion concering the future of open wireless networks. So, in addition to Congress, the FCC, and FTC, Net Neutrality advocates now have the Copyright Office to keep on their radar screens.
Truth, Justice, and Telecom Policy - November 28, 2006
Nokia Launches VoIP BlockerNokia is launching a platform which defies Net Neutrality by enabling operators to block specific types of data services, namely peer-to-peer file sharing and VoIP calls.
Asterisk VoIP News - November 27, 2006
Bill Threatens Public Access and Net Neutrality in MichiganTelecom industry lobbyists are working to pass a new measure that threatens public access programming and Net Neutrality in Michigan. Opponents of the HB 6456 are rallying at noon at the state capital in Lansing.
Media Mouse - November 27, 2006
Race Card Used in Fight Against Network NeutralityIn a shamefully misleading editorial that appeared in the <i>San Jose Mercury News</i>, one false argument is made after another which completely misstate the issues at hand.
What I Really Wanted to Say - November 27, 2006
Michigan Residents Gather to Ground Lame Duck Attempt by AT&TLocal members of the SavetheInternet.com Coalition are gathering tomorrow in Lansing, Mich., to protest efforts by outgoing "lame duck" senators to push through a statewide "video franchising bill" that doesn't protect Net Neutrality.
SavetheInternet.com - November 27, 2006
All Internet Access Is Equal, but Some Is More Equal than OthersWill the most egalitarian of all modern inventions -- the Internet -- become just another "them who has it, gets it" medium? It's a distinct possibility.
Jane Mackay Blog - November 27, 2006
BellSouth Wants Tennessee Statewide Cable FranchiseLawmakers in Nashville got a sneak peak at a statewide cable franchise bill written by BellSouth earlier this year that was eventually referred to a summer study committee and will return with significant revisions in 2007.
The City Paper - November 27, 2006
Google: Mobile Operators Want to Block Our AppsOne of Google's senior executives has criticised mobile phone operators for trying to prevent their users from accessing Internet applications.
ZD Net - November 26, 2006
Telephone Giant Looks to Move in on Cable ServiceMedia observers in Georgia are wary of a switch to a uniform, statewide oversight system for video franchising. They are worried local community protections could get dropped under changes proposed by BellSouth.
Morris News Service - November 26, 2006
New Network Neutrality NotionsWhen Net discrimination happens, it will not be a secret. We Internet users will be willing dupes or complacent, slightly disgruntled customers. We won't know what we're missing, just as your average CNN watcher thinks she's "getting the news."
Isen Blog - November 26, 2006
Cable Bill Sails in Michigan LegislatureThe Michigan House of Representatives passed a cable and video franchise bill that has local leaders concerned about customer service, quality and extent of service, unprotected public right-of-ways, and the elimination of PEG channels.
Press & Guide - November 22, 2006
FCC's McDowell: I'm No DropoutFCC Commissioner Robert McDowell he has been misrepresented by many media outlets with respect to his situation: "Some of the press said I dropped out of the voting process. I say, I never dropped in!"
Light Reading - November 22, 2006
2006 Video Franchise LegislationThis year, statewide video franchising bills are pending in at least five states. Iowa, Louisiana and the Tennessee bills place franchise authority in the secretary of state's office. And, the Michigan and Missouri bills require state-issued franchises.
National Conference of State Legislatures - November 22, 2006
Video a Vital Battleground in GeorgiaBellSouth has launched a big, behind-the-scenes lobbying effort to overhaul how video service franchises are granted in Georgia and in many other states.
Atlanta Journal-Constitution - November 22, 2006
Strains Showing in Longtime FriendshipRep. John Dingell (D-Mich.), set to reclaim the gavel of the Energy and Commerce Committee in January, was one of the telcos' closest allies. But the "purest special interest legislation" that is the telecom bill has soured their relationship.
Center for Public Integrity - November 21, 2006
U.S. Can Get Back on the Broadband Connectivity TrackU.S. telcos are driving innovation at the forefront of cutting-edge broadband services for the global economy. But the lack of real competition doesn't allow U.S. consumers to participate, let alone reap the benefits we bring to other countries.
EDN - November 21, 2006
On Net Neutrality and this Next CongressThe netroots and the progressive movement isn't going away, and we have to make sure that our legislators write laws that are for the benefit of all of us, not simply any one sector full of campaign contributors.
MyDD - November 21, 2006
A Costly Addiction: Raising Money for Re-election at the Expense of Good PolicyCongress should insist that groups whose only interest is good policy get a chance to speak. That would give Washington at least one means to distinguish between the cesspool of special interests and a policymaking process the framers could respect.
Wired - November 21, 2006
Fair and Open Access to Internet Is Crucial to Free Speech"We are troubled by efforts to control the flow of content over the Internet -- to deny the public's ability to receive news and information from a diversity of viewpoints by throttling back the speed of certain Web sites while accelerating others."
National Association of Hispanic Journalists & National Association of Black Journalists - November 21, 2006
Do You Trust Phone, Cable Firms on Michigan Franchising Measure?If the phone company is for something and the cable companies are OK with it, is that really going to be a good thing for Michigan consumers? We don't think so.
Lansing State Journal - November 21, 2006
Net Neutrality Debate Comes to Michigan?In the wake of a video franchise bill being passed in the Michigan House, Google is asking for consumer protections by "making sure telephone and cable companies don't restrict the services that are available."
Capital Viewpoint - November 21, 2006
Google Seeks Unfettered Access for Consumers in Michigan Cable BillMichigan legislators should add further competition and customer protection provisions to the cable franchise bill passed last week by the Michigan House, a Google official said.
Gongwer News Service - November 21, 2006
Don’t Bet Against the InternetMany companies are still betting against the Internet, trying to solve today's problems with yesterday's solutions. Business models based on controlling consumers or content don't work. Human creativity and ingenuity is the better bet.
Economist - November 21, 2006
Assembly Speaker Carried Cable Deregulation Bill for AT&T as Company Raised Money for PartyCalifornia Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez, the major sponsor of the state video franchise bill, received $4 million dollars from the California Democratic Party. The Foundation for Taxpayer and Consumer Rights is charging the money is a "laundered" AT&T co
PR Newswire - November 20, 2006
NABJ, NAHJ Presidents Call For 'Net Neutrality'In a joint declaration, the presidents of the nation's two largest associations of minority journalists called on Congress to preserve Net Neutrality to encourage the diversity of voices on the Web and its role in advancing minority-owned media.
Editor & Publisher - November 20, 2006
AT&T-BellSouth Merger Inches Forward with Appointment of FCC ChairmanAn AT&T official expressed confidence that the acquisition of BellSouth would be approved without the firms having to give up additional concessions.
Information Week - November 20, 2006
On Net Neutrality: Congress Wakes Up to a Watchful PublicThe revolving door of congressional staffers-cum-industry lobbyists is a part the same corruption of our democracy that has become loathsome to voters. The phone and cable lobby is a major player in this scheme.
Savethe Internet.com - November 20, 2006
Minority Journalist Leaders Call for a Neutral NetThe presidents of the nation's two largest associations of minority journalists called on Congress to preserve Net Neutrality so that the Web can remain a haven for diversity, opportunity and free speech.
SavetheInternet.com - November 20, 2006
Accel Partners CEO Day in San FranciscoAt a recent event, Expedia CEO and former head of Paramount and Fox, Barry Diller, spoke passionately about the need for Net Neutrality, which he likened to the break up of the railroad monopolies in the 19th century.
Content Log - November 20, 2006
AT&T-BellSouth Merger Hits a WallIf the AT&T-BellSouth merger is approved, wireless consumers living in America will face increased costs, as AT&T will no longer have to compete with a major competitor. And Net Neutrality -- and a free and open Internet -- will be lost.
Epoch Times - November 20, 2006
Net NeutralityIt is definetely the last bastion of free expression, but a battle is now brewing over who will control the Internet of the future -- big corporations, the government, or neither. <i>(Video 5:00)</i>
WBFF-TV Baltimore - November 20, 2006
AT&T, BellSouth Calm in Wake of FCC DelaysAfter three FCC delays, it's a guessing game when the AT&T-BellSouth merger will be approved and under what conditions. The two companies said they are confident the deal will close before deadlines imposed by the agreement.
Associated Press - November 20, 2006
Every Time You Vote Against Net Neutrality, Your ISP Kills a Night ElfIf there is no Net Neutrality, gaming and voice over IP (VoIP) will be a "senseless loss."
RampRate - November 20, 2006
Rick Boucher Eyes HouseTelecom Panel PostAs Rep. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) debates whether to head the Commerce Committee telecom subcommittee or opt for a potentially bigger post, the Democratic congressman next in line to chair the telecom panel is making no secret he's eyeing the spot.
TV Week - November 20, 2006
BellSouth Lickspittle Toadies Up to FCC ChairmanThe Senate rubber-stamped another five-year term for FCC Chairman Kevin Martin -- a marginal news event if ever there was one, but one that nonetheless sent the BellSouth public relations department into full boot-licking mode.
Network World - November 17, 2006
Net Neutrality? Not at MSN!MSN is filtering every outgoing e-mail, and it is also checking the address to make sure it is a Microsoft e-mail address. If it isn't, then the message isn't forwarded. This is a Net Neutrality issue.
Internet News - November 17, 2006
Feds: We're AT&T's Best FriendThe country's top antitrust official thinks it's just fine to let AT&T take one more step along the path to monopoly power by buying out BellSouth -- and without even demanding any consumer protections.
Computer World - November 17, 2006
Sector Wrap: TelecomThe FCC "can and likely will enlist" recused Republican Commissioner Robert McDowell to break the impasse in the AT&T-BellSouth approval process that currently exists between the Democrat and Republican commissioners.
Associated Press - November 17, 2006
Verizon Needs to Start Producing Cable Network MapsVerizon's cable service application to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities doesn't support its pro-consumer rhetoric. The information to back up its promises is missing. What's missing? Most glaringly, maps.
Asbury Park Press - November 17, 2006
New Congress Likely to Support Net NeutralityNet Neutrality proponents believe that the recent change in Congress is likely to boost their efforts to push legislation that would prohibit tiered access to the Internet.
Information Week - November 17, 2006
Reid Announces Democrat Committee Assignments for 110th CongressIncoming Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) announced the Senate Commerce Committee assignments he anticipates members of the Democratic Caucus will hold during the 110th Congress.
Sen. Harry Reid - November 17, 2006
What Makes an Interest Special?As the price of lobbying Congress has risen, general interests have been drowned out. But the public is on to groups that seek to create artificial scarcity and profit from it. And public interest groups can be effective when the majority is with them.
Dana Blankenhorn - November 17, 2006
Michigan Video Franchise Bill on the MoveProposed bipartisan legislation to create a new state-wide video franchising regime is now moving to the Michigan Senate following passage by the House of Representatives.
Telecom Web - November 16, 2006
Justice Department Supports AT&T MergerThe Justice Department's top antitrust official defended the agency's unconditional approval of AT&T's $82 billion buyout of BellSouth as "pretty straightforward" despite criticism from Democratic regulators and lawmakers.
Associated Press - November 16, 2006
Project Censored Updates Its 'Top 25 Censored Stories of 2007'Project Censored has posted an update of its "Top 25 Censored Stories of 2007" with new information about the number one story: Net Neutrality.
Project Censored - November 16, 2006
Oh What Tiny Webs We WieldThe blogosphere may have corporatations disguised as individual blogs (flogs), but because the Internet is essentially neutral, it is easy and cheap to set up a blog and go up against them.
Allentown Times - November 16, 2006
Dutch Cable Operators Obliged to Open NetworksThe Netherlands is the first country to attack the Net Neutrality issue at its heart, and to separate network ownership and services for all networks, whether copper, coax or fiber. It should serve as an example for the U.S. and Europe.
Buziaulane - November 16, 2006
Lobbyist for FCC Hired by ComcastComcast has hired a former lobbyist for the FCC. Federal ethics rules restrict former government employees from lobbying on some issues in which they were directly involved. However, the rule vary depending on many factors.
Philadelphia Inquirer - November 16, 2006
So How About that New Congress?So how about that mid-term election? Of course, even before the dust settled, folks have scrambled to opine about what changes and what happens next.
Wet Machine - November 15, 2006
Big Change in Congress Seen Having Little Change on Internet RegulationControversies surrounding Internet regulation and oversight that entangled lawmakers in the Republican-controlled Congress likely will remain as the Democrats take the reins.
National Journal - November 15, 2006
Jello Biafra on Net Neutrality & the COPE ActJello Biafra spoke before a crowd at the Orpheum Theater in Flagstaff, Ariz., and described the COPE Act and what is in store for the Internet without Net Neutrality. <i>(Video 2:05)</i>
YouTube - November 14, 2006
Video Franchising Bill Moves in MichiganLawmakers in Michigan advanced a measure to overhaul video-franchising rules, as the state House approved a measure that would allow new entrants to the video market to bypass localities by applying for statewide video franchises.
National Journal - November 14, 2006
Sen. DeMint Pessimistic on Chances for Market-Based Telecom ReformSen. Jim DeMint (R-S.C.) said that chances for market-based communications reform in the new Congress that convenes in January are "slim to none." He supports legislation to change the focus of the FCC to antitrust and consumer protection.
National Journal - November 14, 2006
If You Use DSL, You’ve Already LostBig telecos might be so cavalier about Net Neutrality these days because they know they've been winning that war for years already. They've always been trying to monetize the data both ways.
John G. Bell's Blog - November 14, 2006
Senate Panel Wants a Look at AT&T-BellSouthThe Democrat who is expected to head the Senate Commerce Committee next year said he would welcome a delay to regulatory approval of AT&T's proposed acquisition of BellSouth so the panel can review it.
Reuters - November 14, 2006
A Vote for a Fair InternetAs much as anything, last Tuesday's vote was also a call for Congress to end "business as usual" and return to governing in the public interest. Nowhere is this need more glaring than in media policymaking.
TomPaine.com - November 14, 2006
Democrats Say Oversight Is OverdueThe rulemaking agenda in Washington is about to change. Business, labor and public interest groups agree that the incoming Democratic House and Senate will conduct robust oversight of federal agencies and their regulatory output and policies.
Washington Post - November 14, 2006
NAB, Democrats and the ElectionSensing the shift among voters, the National Association of Broadcasters hedged its bets and began funding key Democrats toward the end of the campaign.
Broadcasting & Cable - November 14, 2006
Internet Regulation Threatens Carefree Browsing and Web FreedomThe Internet will become regulated and divided if the telcos are allowed to control the flow of information on the Internet based on its content and ownership.
Nevada Sagebrush - November 14, 2006
Cable TV Franchising to Change SoonNorth Carolina held a public hearing to get input on implementing new cable franchise laws. Supporters believe it will create more competition and lower prices. But critics worry many neighborhoods will be left out.
News 14 Carolina - November 14, 2006
Barton: NAB’s Rehr Wrong About DingellHouse Commerce Committee Chairman Joe Barton (R-Texas) said that the leader of the National Association of Broadcasters was incorrect to conclude that owners of TV and radio stations would get a better shake under incoming Democratic committee leadership.
Multichannel News - November 13, 2006
Congress Should Hold Hearings on Universal ServiceCongress should subpoena the principals of the Universal Service Administrative Company and the heads of the remaining telcos to explain themselves. Then they should hear from people who actually could use affordable Internet access.
Isen Blog - November 13, 2006
Don't Reconfirm FCC Chairman MartinFCC Chairman Kevin Martin's appointment to a second term as FCC Commissioner should not be confired. He has not championed the Internet or its future, and U.S. Internet connectivity has fallen further behind the rest of the world.
Isen Blog - November 13, 2006
Outlook for Technology Policy in the Next CongressDemocrats now have the opportunity to make a profound and lasting impact on technology policy. What shape this will take is unclear, but innovation, competitiveness, privacy, offshoring, and the Internet are on their radar.
Association for Computing Machinery - November 13, 2006
Michigan Restarts Stalled Video Franchise BillWith the elections over, Michigan legislators will revisit a bill pending since September that would authorize state oversight of video franchises.
Multichannel News - November 13, 2006
Democrats in Charge, but not ThreateningBecause Democrats have made the issues that drove voters to the polls their legislative agenda to start 2007, it's highly unlikely that incoming House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) has plans to move telecom policy to the front of the line.
Multichannel News - November 13, 2006
Pelosi Likely to Speak Up for Tech IndustryAlthough her San Francisco district sits on the outskirts of the country's technology capital, Rep. Nancy Pelosi has never been considered a high-tech champion. So why is Silicon Valley so hopeful about the her likely tenure as speaker of the House.
Los Angeles Times - November 13, 2006
Net Neutrality Needed for the Real Purpose of the InternetExpression should always be apart of our lives, and that is what the Internet is basically for! To take away Net Neutrality is to strip the Internet of its purpose and anyone's purpose for being there!
GeekswithBlogs.net - November 13, 2006
On a Legislative AgendaThere are a few reasons that Net Neutrality is on the netroots legislative agenda. One is quite obvious -- without NN, we couldn't do what we do. The second is not so obvious, and that's the organizing work that has gone into this issue.
MyDD - November 13, 2006
We Cannot Remain Neutral on Net NeutralityThe telecom bill without Net Neutrality language would enable the big telcos to get additional revenue from those with a large and busy Internet presence like YouTube. It would also squeeze out the little start-ups that breathe so much life into the Inter
GeekswithBlogs.net - November 13, 2006
An Update of Media and Internet Activism in the U.S.Despite claims of being quixotic, hopeless and an uphill battle, activists fighting to stop the telecom bill kept spreading the word. Even though there is a slight chance of it coming up in the lame duck session, the fight has been a lesson in democracy.
ZNet - November 13, 2006
Leaders Speaking Out About Next StepsThe election was only the beginning. This is an opportunity for real change. For media, it's time to start over from scratch in 2007, and begin having a genuine public debate about what the future of the media and the Internet should look like.
Huffington Post - November 13, 2006
Election Aftermath: What's at Stake for TechnologyReauthorization of the expired research and development tax credit and restoration of Net Neutrality are among the issues at stake for technology that could come up during the lame duck session.
San Francisco Chronicle - November 12, 2006
New Congress Could Reboot Net NeutralityRepublicans could use the lame duck session to accelerate the passage of legislation for nationally-licensed broadband ISPs, which could have substantial control over the levels and classes of service.
Beta News - November 10, 2006
Keeping the New Media NewThe biggest threats to the Internet are the people that would create a non-neutral industry and the video sites that have unfriendly Terms of Service. Indie creators don't have a chance to grow and profit in that kind of environment.
WorldChanging - November 10, 2006
Techs: High Up on Capitol HillThe 110th Congress could be the most technology-friendly in history. Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), the presumptive new speaker of the House, represents a city that's near the heart of America's tech sector.
Business 2.0 Magazine - November 10, 2006
Will Dems Change Tech Policy?A year ago Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) held a press conference and rolled out the Democrats' "Innovation Agenda," which promised double federal spending on a national broadband rollout and technology research and development.
Internet News - November 10, 2006
Barton Tries For Minority LeaderJoe Barton (R-Te.x), chairman of the House Energy & Commerce Committee until January, has thrown his hat in the ring for House minority leader.
Broadcasting & Cable - November 10, 2006
A Better Internet?There's a battle raging quietly about Internet regulation that will eventually determine whether or not tiny businesses like podcasters and indie artists can even afford to use the internet to promote and expand.
Matthew Ebel Blog - November 10, 2006
Power Shift Augers New Direction on Media IssuesMedia legislation will likely take on a new tone in the wake of a Democratic takeover in the House and Senate. Media ownership rules may see little change, and the telecom bill remains in limbo.
TV Technology - November 10, 2006
On Net NeutralityThose who control the fiber, control the future. So some protection is in order to prevent the abuse of those who control the access, and those who work for the shareholder above any nation's citizenry.
Web Pro News - November 10, 2006
Telecom Bill Appears Dead for YearPending telecom legislation faces new hurdles now that Democrats have won the House and gained control of the Senate.
National Journal - November 9, 2006
Dingell's Remarks on Telecom Bill Draw Mixed Reaction from BellsThe Bells had mixed reactions to news that incoming House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman John Dingell (D-Mich.) will pursue fresh telecom legislation in 2007.
National Journal - November 9, 2006
Lame Ducks Limp Back to CongressWith Democrats lined up to block the telecom bill if it doesn't include Net Neutrality protections, the legislation is on lame duck life support.
Internet News - November 9, 2006
A Better InternetA new video on YouTube shows what the telcos would have you believe -- that control of the Internet would be better off in their hands and not in yours. <i>(Video 00.31)</i>
NetNeutralityNow - November 9, 2006
Democrat Sweep Good News for Net NeutralityOn Capitol Hill, Net Neutrality been a straight party line vote. But outside the Beltway it has been anything but partisan. A sweeping Democratic victory will allow some Republicans to align their vote with their constituency rather than their chairman.
Web Pro News - November 9, 2006
Politics and Net NeutralityIt is in the interest of the whole world for the United States to forge ahead in Internet connectivity. After all, a society is its communications.
Perilocity - November 9, 2006
Shift Happened: How Might a Democrat-Controlled Congress Affect Media and InternetThe midterm elections show that, in a democracy, there is always room for a rethink, an opportunity for a policy shift when the national consciousness wakes up and recognizes that its policies might be leading the nation down a backward-heading path.
Jeff Pulver Blog - November 9, 2006
It's Inouye's Turn to Set the Telecom AgendaThe Democratic senator from Hawaii will likely replace Republican Ted Stevens as chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, but the two are expected to continue to work closely together.
TV Newsday - November 9, 2006
What the Democrats' Win Means for TechIt was the narrowest of Republican margins in the U.S. Senate that doomed a crucial vote on Net Neutrality earlier this year. With the shift in Congressional leadership, the outlook for technology-related legislation has changed dramatically.
CNet - November 9, 2006
Net Neutrality and National Franchise on the TableJohn Dingell (D-Mich.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) have both been avid supporters of Net Neutrality laws and are expected to take command of telecom policy when Democrats reclaim power in the House next January.
Daily Wireless - November 9, 2006
House Democrats and the Internet, Telecom AgendaRepublican control of the Congress has been so entrenched that the Democrats have played mostly defense for well over a decade. And now, the "new" House leaders on commerce, telecom and Internet matters are exactly the same as they were in 1994.
IP Democracy - November 8, 2006
Neutrality Crucial to Net's FutureVint Cerf, one of the "founding fathers" of the modern-day Internet, says a free and open network is crucial to the Internet's continuing unimpeded development. <i>(Audio, 9:10)</i>
PodTech News - November 8, 2006
What the Elections Means for the CommonsThis year's elections and ballot initiatives will have sweeping implications for all sorts of commons-related issues. Chief among them: media concentration and Net Neutrality.
On the Commons - November 8, 2006
A Democratic House's Impact on TelecomThe change in House leadership means a renewed interest in Net Neutrality laws, but it may also damage telco efforts to pass legislation giving them a nationwide video franchise.
Broadband Reports - November 8, 2006
Anti Net-Neutrality Ad Is OnThe telcos are running their "Mumbo Jumbo" ad on television in hopes of trashing the concept of Net Neutrality. But their idea of a free market means backroom deals between telcos and content providers that leave consumers paying more and accessing less.
djmitche - November 8, 2006
Hold Off on AT&T-BellSouth, Says DingellFuture House Energy & Commerce Committee Chairman John Dingell (D-Mich.) says the FCC should hold off on the AT&T-BellSouth merger. He also wants the committee to review the ownership rules and look at the telecom bill with an eye towards Net Neutrality.
Broadcasting & Cable - November 8, 2006
Internet Freedom Fighters to Take Command in CongressThe election results are good news for anyone who cares about the free and open Internet. Strong supporters of Net Neutrality will most likely take command of telecommunications policy when their party reclaims majority power in the House in 2007.
SavetheInternet.com - November 8, 2006
Just Like Old Times: Dingell, Markey in ChargeThe Democrat Party won a majority of the seats in the House of Representatives in midterm elections, putting John Dingell of Michigan and Ed Markey of Massachusetss back on top in the communications legislating business.
TV Newsday - November 8, 2006
End of the Internet?The way the Internet works at the moment, you can access a blog by an anti-war teenager from Utah on an equal footing with the Web site of the U.S. defense department. But all that could change if some of the big Internet service providers get their way.
muthumbi - November 8, 2006
Why Tuesday Did Matter for Net Neutrality -- and Why the Debate Should ChangeThe election results will change the Net Neutrality debate. Instead of pushing for some small provisions, perhaps we can all move to a more meaningful debate about how to really build new, powerful, neutral, competitive broadband offerings.
Paul Kapustka's Blog - November 8, 2006
Internet Providers Could Jack Up Web Surfing PricesIf Net Neutrality regulations were relaxed, we would all end up having to pay more for Internet access -- and we still would not be guaranteed that we could access any site we want or need.
SCSB Daily Nexus - November 8, 2006
Few Tech Changes Expected if Democrats Take Control of CongressIf Democrats take control of the Congress after the election, expect lawmakers to make relatively few major changes in technology and telecom-related law. However, Net Neutrality and government surveillance programs could be exceptions.
IDG News Service - November 7, 2006
APC Internet Rights CharterThe Association for Progressive Communications has revised its Internet Rights Charter along seven themes, including Internet access for all; freedom of expression and association; and access to knowledge.
Association for Progressive Communications - November 7, 2006
AT&T and BellSouth: Why You Should CareMedia reform and consumer groups believe the outcome of a quiet political battle over which restrictions to impose on the AT&T and BellSouth merger will affect consumers for years to come.
CNet - November 7, 2006
Pay-per-ViewWith diminishing library reserves making researchers dependent upon internet-based information, the idea of letting anyone have gatekeeper status over what the public can and cannot access sounds like a bad (American) dream.
Daily Vanguard - November 7, 2006
Net Neutrality and BusinessA small post with two useful tools for understanding the importance of Net Neutrality for small businesses.
AndyWibbels.com - November 7, 2006
FTC Chief Warns Against 'Unnecessary' Net RulesThe head of the Federal Trade Commission voiced reluctance toward adopting consumer protection laws that target technological concerns, saying the "collective voice" of consumers often prompts change.
CNet - November 6, 2006
Shunning Merger Vote, FCC Grants BPL Deregulation ParityBehind the scenes at the FCC, Chairman Kevin Martin is looking into the possibility of forcing Commissioner Robert McDowell to vote on the AT&T-BellSouth merger despite his recusal. And doubts linger about the effectiveness of reclassifying BPL.
Telecom Web - November 6, 2006
Black Leaders Help Postpone AT&T-BellSouth MergerDuring the last year, African American leaders and media reform advocates have been voicing concerns about the AT&T-BellSouth because of its impact on consumer interests and competition.
Black News - November 6, 2006
Davey D Talks Highlights Media Issues at Upcoming Hip Hop FestivalOakland-based hip-hop journalist Davey D returns to Seattle this November to speak at "Hip Hop: Back to Its Roots," a festival of hip-hop arts, dance, music and rapping featuring local and internationally celebrated performers
Reclaim the Media - November 6, 2006
More on Net Neutrality in Canada...The Net Neutrality issue is heating up in Canada. There are two Canadian Web sites that have good information supporting Internet freedom.
Library Monkey - November 6, 2006
Net Neutrality Divides PartiesShould Democrats take control of one or both houses of Congress in the election, people who back Internet non-discrimination laws believe they'd get a boost. But what ultimate effect a change in Congress would have is unclear.
Chicago Tribune - November 4, 2006
FCC Fails to End Impasse on AT&T DealAlthough FCC Commissioner Kevin Martin would like to see the AT&T-BellSouth merger approved without conditions, many groups oppose the deal, saying the new AT&T would have too much power over high-speed Internet service in California and 21 other states.
Los Angeles Times - November 4, 2006
Watch Those Data PipelinesThe FCC should approve the AT&T-BellSouth deal only with conditions that prohibit the merged company from imposing fees that discriminate unfairly against Web sites or services.
Los Angeles Times - November 3, 2006
Broadband over Power Line-enabled Internet Classified by FCCThe FCC declared Broadband over Power Line (BPL)-enabled Internet access service to be an information service. The order places BPL Internet access service on an equal regulatory footing with cable modem service and DSL Internet access service.
Tech News - November 3, 2006
A Proxy Vote for Net NeutralityFCC Commissioners Michael Copps and Jonathan Adelstein grudgingly consented to the classification of BPL as an information service. But they made it clear that the FCC was going into uncharted territory that had grave implications for consumers.
Public Knowledge - November 3, 2006
AT&T Rages at FCC DelayThe latest delay of the AT&T-BellSouth merger prompted AT&T to lash out at the "self interest of commercial entities and their litany of unreasonable demands" in a carefully worded statement.
Light Reading - November 3, 2006
FCC Endorses Broadband over Powerline as Information ServiceThe FCC classified Broadband over Powerline (BPL)technology as an "information service." The decision places BPL-enabled access services on equal footing with cable modem and DSL Internet access services, which means it is not subject to common carriage r
TechWeb - November 3, 2006
Progress Has Slowed on AT&T-BellSouthFCC Chairman Kevin Martin said progress had slowed on reaching a compromise to approve AT&T's acquisition of BellSouth after a vote was postponed for the third time. He said the Commissioners were "still pretty far apart."
Reuters - November 3, 2006
FCC Hopes to Resurrect Ma Bell While No One's WatchingWhat will happen if AT&T swallows BellSouth? The new Ma Bell will control the nation's largest telephone, broadband, and wireless company. This enormous market power will allow AT&T to accelerate its pattern of price increases and suppress new innovation.
Richmond Times-Dispatch - November 3, 2006
FCC Delays Vote on AT&T-BellSouth DealFCC approval for AT&T's acquisition of BellSouth has been postponed again. At issue are conditions that would ensure Net Neutrality, reasonably priced digital subscriber line service without bundling services and a divestiture of unused spectrum.
Associated Press - November 3, 2006
FCC Again Delays Vote on AT&T, BellSouth DealThe FCC delayed a vote on AT&T's purchase of BellSouth for a third time, reflecting a clash between Republican and Democratic members of the agency on several issues.
Reuters - November 3, 2006
FCC Vote on the Deal for BellSouth Is Put OffThe FCC delayed voting on AT&T's purchase of BellSouth for the third time yesterday as the commissioners remained far apart on what, if any, terms to impose on the $80 billion deal.
New York Times - November 3, 2006
AT&T Urges FCC to Reject More Conditions on MergerAT&T and BellSouth have urged the FCC to reject all requests by competitors and critics for additional conditions to be imposed on their proposed $80 billion union.
National Journal - November 3, 2006
Net Neutrality: A Port in any Storm (of Controversy)Any restriction on network users' access to information from a range of media sources would have harmful distorting effects on those users' perceptions of the world around them and harm the democratic process.
EDN - November 2, 2006
House Dems Urge AT&T Merger VoteTwenty-six House Democrats sent a letter urging the FCC to wrap up its review of AT&T's $81 billion merger with BellSouth.
Multichannel News - November 2, 2006
Battle for Net Neutrality Arrives in CanadaThe battle in the United States by major telecom companies to control web content has arrived in Canada with little fanfare -- and it's a fight that could forever change the Internet as we know it.
Canadian Press - November 2, 2006
FCC's Democrats Might Hold Up BellSouth DealThe AT&T-BellSouth merger is set for a vote at the FCC on Friday. But the vote may be stalled again as Democrat Commissioners Jonathan Adelstein and Michael Copps insist on attaching consumer protections to the deal.
Cox News - November 2, 2006
Hanging Up on ReformAs Congress considers a major rewrite of telecommunications legislation, Chicago Access Network TV examines what is at stake for local communities if the telephone industry is successful in eliminating local video franchising. <i>(Video 25:44)</i>
Chicago Access Network - November 1, 2006
Three Black Mayors Take Lonely Stand on AT&T-BellSouth MergerMayors Ray Nagin of New Orleans, Kwame Kilpatrick of Detroit, and Eric Perrodin of Compton submitted comments, for the second time, expressing concerns about AT&T and BellSouth's performance in inner-city areas.
Lasar's Letter - November 1, 2006
Threats to Net Neutrality Feared in CanadaRight now in Canada, the Internet is almost a perfect, universal democracy. But that could change drastically if Canadian telecoms like Bell, Telus and Rogers follow the lead of their American counterparts, support legislation against Net Neutrality.
Canadian Journalist - November 1, 2006
Broadband Competition Is OverstatedCompetition in broadband in overstated. The feds overstate broadband penetration (competition) by using zip codes as the unit of measure. And locally, the market is almost always a monopoly.
Wired Pen - November 1, 2006
Microsoft Exits Coalition Against AT&T-BellSouth MergerMicrosoft has withdrawn its name from the It's Our Net Web site for the pendency of the AT&T-Bellsouth merger proceeding based on a company decision not to engage the proceeding.
Computer Business Review - November 1, 2006
Net Neutrality Is Aimed at Small FirmsDuring a recent panel discussion, a Google executive warned that small businesses would be harmed the most if the federal government fails to guarantee the unencumbered flow of Internet content.
National Journal - October 31, 2006
FCC Meeting for November 3 . . . It Just Keeps Getting StrangerThe FCC has issued the agenda for it's Nov. 3 meeting. The proposed Notice of Inquiry on Net Neutrality is not on it, a number of non-merger items have popped up, and there is a debate around forcing AT&T to divest wireless spectrum.
Wet Machine - October 31, 2006
Verizon's FiOS Cost Troubling InvestorsVerizon took a beating after investors digested news that the company's new fiber network is costing slightly more than anticipated.
The Record (Trenton) - October 31, 2006
Why Citizen Movements Are Citizen DrivenIf you expect the Net Neutrality movement to vanish if the telcos and techcos manage to cut some kind of deal, think again. What has put Net Neutrality on the map has been people getting together and reminding their representatives they work for us.
Public Knowledge - October 31, 2006
Subway Fares via PhoneThe N.Y. MTA will allow riders to pay for their fares with cell phones -- but it has to be with a Citibank account and a Cingular phone. This kind of deal can happen on the Internet if Net Neutrality is not written into law.
Metroblogging NYC - October 31, 2006
Microsoft Withdraws from Effort to Make AT&T-Bell South Merger Net NeutralOdds are Microsoft's withdrawal from the It's Our Net coalition will have little impact on the actual Net Neutrality debate. It probably says more about Microsoft and its IPTV connections with AT&T than any grand issue.
Paid Content - October 31, 2006
Public Policy and the Brand X DecisionThe Brand X case determined whether cable companies, like telephone companies, are required to share their networks with third-party Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
The Old Line - October 31, 2006
Microsoft Leaves Group Asking BellSouth LimitsMicrosoft decided not to weigh in on AT&T's proposed acquisition of BellSouth, saying it won't seek to influence regulators weighing the purchase. However, they will continue to support Net Neutrality policies.
Bloomberg News - October 31, 2006
Between a Lame Duck and a Lousy BillNational polls indicate that the upcoming midterm election could bring some dramatic shifts of power on Capitol Hill. But that may not save us from members of the outgoing Congress who are planning a last-minute assault on Internet freedom.
SavetheInternet.com - October 31, 2006
Why Consumers Should Care About Network NeutralityThe interests of ordinary consumers and small businesses are all too often left in the lurch regarding important issues. That's what's happening in the continuing arguments over Net Neutrality, where Big Media is attempting to manipulate the debate.
Lauren Weinstein's Blog - October 30, 2006
The New Imperial HighwayVirtually overnight, the world wide web has made sending and receiving information easier than ever, opening a vast new marketplace of ideas and transforming commerce and culture. It may also revitalize democracy.
Cerebral Death Match - October 30, 2006
FCC Scheduled to Decide BPL ClassificationThe FCC is likely to decide whether BPL should be classified as an interstate information service, rather than a telecommunications service, the same as DSL and cable modem access.
XChange Magazine - October 30, 2006
Attack on the Internet Picks Up SteamThe Internet is under attack, not only by large telecoms who want to be gatekeepers, but by Homeland Security Chief Michael Chertoff. He said the Internet allows people to 'learn' to be dissatisfied with the American Way, which leads to terrorism.
Great Start Up Game - October 30, 2006
Elections' Effect on MediaIf Congress does change hands completely, committee assignments should end up following seniority. That would place John Dingell (D-Mich.) atop House Energy & Commerce and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) heading the House Telecommunications Subcommittee.
Broadcasting & Cable - October 30, 2006
FCC Open Meeting Friday November 3The FCC will hold an open meeting on Friday, Nov. 3 at 9:30 a.m. in Washington, D.C. The AT&T-BellSouth merger and Net Neutrality are among the four items on the agenda.
Federal Communications Commission - October 30, 2006
Companies Fight over Phone, TV, Internet ServiceWhen Verizon first started building its network in Florida, it encountered concerns about cherry-picking from competitors and government officials. Today, Verizon's path still seems like a bit of a mystery.
Sarasota Herald-Tribune - October 30, 2006
Net Neutrality Back on the AgendaMore than 6,000 bloggers that form the core of SavetheInternet.com Coalition will come together at the National Conference for Media Reform in Memphis.
FI Space - October 30, 2006
FCC Schedules Vote on AT&T-BellSouth DealThe FCC plans to vote Nov. 3 on AT&T's $82 billion purchase of BellSouth, three weeks after a deadlock on the terms of approval derailed a previously scheduled vote.
St. Louis Post-Dispatch - October 30, 2006
Alfred Kahn on Network NeutralityEconomist Alfred Kahn has a long history of spurring competition in mature businesses. Yet in his commentary on Net Neutrality, he does not once turn to the matter of innovative new businesses facing a discriminatory system of tiered prices.
Isen Blog - October 30, 2006
EarthLink Issues AT&T Merger Statement to FCCEarthLink issued a statement regarding the FCC's pending consideration of the AT&T-BellSouth merger, asking for clear merger conditions for stand-alone service and a strong position in favor of consumer freedom.
EarthLink - October 30, 2006
The 'Global Warming' of the InternetNot only is Net Neutrality cheaper for the consumer, it's good for democracy. If the telecoms are allowed instead to assign priority to packets, they will have the ability to decide who and what gets priority viewing online.
Huffington Post - October 29, 2006
New Net Neutrality VideoA new video supporting Net Neutrality from someone who used to work for an Internet Service Provider. <i>(Video 2:39)</i>
Nicholas Farley Blog - October 29, 2006
Internet Freedom in DangerCongress is pushing a law that would abandon Net Neutrality. If the public doesn't speak up now, our elected officials will cave to a multi-million dollar lobbying campaign by the corporate telecom industry.
Alien Nation of Universal Mothers and Fathers - October 28, 2006
Groups Back Telecom Deal Without FCC DisclosuresSome nonprofits that back the AT&T, BellSouth merger receive considerable funding from the companies but do not disclose the ties in their comments to the FCC.
National Journal - October 27, 2006
AT&T Nixes Net-Neutrality ProposalA senior AT&T executive rejected a proposal that would require the company to adhere to Internet-nondiscrimination rules in order to gain approval from the FCC to merge with BellSouth.
Multichannel News - October 27, 2006
The Chicks, NBC and Net NeutralityNBC's refusal to air the ads for the new Dixie Chicks movie shows the need for the Internet to remain open and free without gatekeepers.
Public Knowledge - October 27, 2006
FCC Closes Lobbying Window on AT&T-BellSouthThe FCC closed the window for parties to lobby the agency on whether it should approve AT&T's purchase of BellSouth on Nov. 3.
Reuters - October 27, 2006
Telus Voices Opinion on InteroperabilityTelus, one of Canada's largest Internet Service Providers, made demands that the government should back a tougher "fair use" regime. Recently, the same company has become vocal again -- this time defending interoperability and fair use.
Slyck News - October 27, 2006
Dutch Get Net Neutrality RightThe real way to get Net Neutrality is to separate the companies that deliver bits from the companies selling content and services made out of bits. And that's exactly what a bill passed by the Dutch Parliament proposes.
Joho the Blog - October 27, 2006
Big Cable's Ridiculous Net Neutrality Smear VideoThe neutricidal maniacs at the National Cable and Telecommunications Association have fielded an embarrassing anti-Net Neutrality advertisement.
Ramblefish - October 27, 2006
Martin Concerned Over FCC's PowerFCC Chairman Kevin Martin says he has concerns about the FCC's power to trump earlier court decisions regarding its rules, a power that allowed it to open the can of worms called Net Neutrality.
Broadcasting & Cable - October 27, 2006
Net Neutrality and Media ConsolidationFCC Commissioner Michael Copps argues that the continued trend in media consolidation will be further exacerbated by recent decisions by the FCC. <i>(Audio 39:16)</i>
Skimming the Cream Off the Top - October 27, 2006
Speed MattersThe Communications Workers of America has adopted "five key principles" for improving the US's place in the high-speed Internet economy.
Speed Matters - October 27, 2006
Ninjas, Nerds and Net NeutralityHaving spent the summer in Silicon Valley, the land of technowizardry and startup companies floating on the hopes and dreams of nerds and venture capitalists alike, a Princeton student is shocked that fellow classmates are unaware of Net Neutrality.
Daily Princetonian - October 27, 2006
Net Neutrality an Important Issue for FutureOccasionally an important issue comes before Congress that elicits little publicity but will have far-reaching implications for the future. One such issue at hand concerns who will control the Internet.
Spartanburg Herald-Journal (S.C.) - October 27, 2006
FCC Chief Says Working to Finish AT&T-BellSouthThe FCC is working hard to complete a delayed vote on AT&T's acquisition of BellSouth, FCC Chairman Kevin Martin said.
Reuters - October 27, 2006
Netherlands Parliament Votes to Separate Network Ownership from ServicesThe move by the Dutch parliament is significant because it addresses the Net Neutrality issue where it truly matters -- the separation of network ownership from the services and content that run on those networks.
MuniWireless - October 26, 2006
Public Knowledge Endorses Strong Net Neutrality in AT&T MergerThings should start getting intense at the FCC next week, as Chairman Kevin Martin has set Nov. 3 as the date for a decision on the $80 billion AT&T takeover of BellSouth.
Public Knowledge - October 26, 2006
Senate Should Listen to Teens on Net NeutralitySen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine) tells a story about chatting with a teenager about Net Neutrality. The teenager grasped it in seconds. "It's privatizing the Internet," he told Snowe. That's right, the senator replied.
Lewiston Sun Journal - October 26, 2006
Foes, Friends of Telecom Deal Offer Last WordsOpponents of the AT&T-BellSouth merger took their last, best shots this week, submitting comments to regulators that, at times, blistered the huge telecom deal.
Atlanta Journal-Constitution - October 26, 2006
FCC Likely to Avoid Net Neutrality Debate in AT&T-BellSouth Merger DecisionAs the FCC mulls conditions on AT&T's $83 billion merger with BellSouth, the commission faces pressure to turn the process into a fight over Net Neutrality.
San Antonio Express-News - October 26, 2006
What a Wireless World It Will BeNet Neutrality is critical to radio stations that look to the wireless Internet -- either via WiMAX or 3G -- as a future service platform.
Radio World - October 26, 2006
The Truth Behind America's Digital DeclineWith every passing month, the United States falls further behind the global leaders in broadband Internet access thanks to a combination of market and policy failures.
Government Technology - October 26, 2006
Plot Thickens in Penn. Cable RivalryVerizon has lost a round, and the city's red alert on cable franchising has been downgraded to yellow in Pennsylvania. The Legislature has decided not to adopt statewide cable franchising, at least not this year.
Reading Eagle - October 25, 2006
A Bad Deal for Cable CustomersAs Verizon attempts to jump into the world of cable service, it is trying to leap-frog over Pennsylvania consumers. Verizon lobbyists are aggressively pushing legislation that would take away consumer protection power.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - October 25, 2006
Diller Makes Case for Net NeutralityMedia mogul Barry Diller pled his case for Net Neutrality, a concept that could guarantee "the final convergence" of TV and computer technologies.
Hollywood Reporter - October 25, 2006
Internet Coalition Raps AT&T-BellSouth MergerThe FCC's policy statement fails to address the critical issue of discrimination against unaffiliated Internet content, applications and services says the It's Our Net Coalition.
Internet News - October 25, 2006
Oh, No, Mr. Bill! A Former FCC Chairman Opposes Net NeutralityWorking for affordable, widespread broadband is a worthy goal. But there is no guarantee that anything Former FCC Chairman Bill Kennard proposes will lead to his quest for affordable broadband.
TPM Cafe - October 25, 2006
AT&T/BellSouth Merger Does Nothing for ConsumersConsumer groups today warned the FCC not to be fooled by the proposed "concessions" offered by AT&T and BellSouth for approval of their merger. Consumers are still likely to see higher prices and lackluster service with this merger.
Free Press and Consumer's Union - October 24, 2006
FCC Asked to Factor Net Neutrality into AT&T MergerIt's Our Net, a coalition of consumer advocacy groups, said the FCC policy statement isn't strong enough to protect Internet users from the large broadband carrier if it decided to block or slow Internet content created by its competitors.
IDG News Service - October 24, 2006
Net Neutrality opponents Beware- President Bush Says He’s a Google Earth UserAs far as Net Neutrality issues are concerned, the Bush Administration may favor established telecos over companies such as Google. However, Bush admitted in a recent interview that he uses Google Earth.
ZDNet - October 24, 2006
Internet Freedom Vital to Creative Media Artists, Must Be Condition of AT&T-BellSouth MergerThe ability to view independent and diverse voices and viewpoints is at stake in the FCC's consideration of this colossal combination of AT&T and BellSouth. Net Neutrality conditions should be imposed on their merger.
Center for Creative Voices in Media - October 24, 2006
It's Our Net Calls for Tougher ConditionsAT&T's offer of abiding by FCC Net Neutrality guidelines is not cutting it for the It's Our Net Coalition. It filed comments with the FCC urging the commission to impose conditions that guarantee Net Neutrality.
Broadcasting & Cable - October 24, 2006
AT&T Profit Rises 74% on Wireless GrowthAT&T said yesterday that its profit increased 74 percent in the third quarter, spurred by strong growth at Cingular Wireless and savings from the merger of the old AT&T with SBC Communications.
New York Times - October 24, 2006
Network Neutrality Debate: It's All RelativeTelco shill Scott Cleland is using discredited data to make his argument against Net Neutrality.
TechDirt - October 24, 2006
FCC Action on AT&T Deal Hits RoadblockAn AT&T executive suggested that the company might push for recused FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell to be forced to participate in the merger vote — a procedure allowed under federal law — if the deadlock lasted more than a few weeks.
Los Angeles Times - October 24, 2006
NY Times Op-Ed: Stranger than FictionThe debate over Net Neutrality should be a broad, public conversation about what the future of the Internet will look like. By portraying this issue as corporate infighting, a recent op-ed appeases the "merely rich," but fails the rest of us.
SavetheInternet.com - October 24, 2006
Net Neutrality Would Be Democrats' PetLobbyists for the big companies that control most of the Internet in the U.S. are worried that the Democrats might pick up the seats they need to take over one or both chambers of Congress.
Associated Press - October 23, 2006
Cable, Phone, Net Companies Have Spent $110 Million this Year to Influence Telecom ReformAll told, cable, phone and Internet companies in the first half of the year have spent more than $110 million on lobbyists, consultants, Web sites, billboards and advertisements trying to sway the voting and thinking of members of Congress.
Multichannel News - October 23, 2006
AT&T Sees Its Bellsouth Conditions as FrameworkAT&T expects the FCC to impose conditions on its purchase of BellSouth that are in line with what the company has proposed, a senior AT&T lawyer said.
Reuters - October 23, 2006
Don't Nix Net NeutralityCongress will consider the telecom bill after the November elections. If legislation to protect Net Neutrality isn't passed soon, we might find that free speech comes with a price tag.
Minnesota Daily - October 23, 2006
21st Century Reaganomics: Helping the 'Merely Rich' so as to Help the Really PoorOver the last 8 years, concurrent with deregulation of the Internet, we've plummeted far from our position on top of high-speed broadband penetration. At some point, you might think some would begin to worry about whether the U.S. strategy makes sense.
Lessig Blog - October 23, 2006
Bill Kennard Misses the CluetrainFormer FCC Chairman Bill Kennard is now a telecom financier at The Carlyle Group. In a recent op-ed, he misses the point about Net Neutrality.
Isen Blog - October 23, 2006
Oregon Speaks Out for Net NeutralitySen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) recently joined large and small business owners, labor leaders and consumer advocates in calling on Congress to protect Net Neutrality -- the endangered principle that ensures all Web sites and services are treated equally.
Medford News - October 23, 2006
AT&T Concessions Not Enough to Allow BellSouth BuyoutConsumer groups say concessions offered by AT&T as it seeks government approval of its buyout of BellSouth fall far short of what's needed for the deal to be in the public interest.
San Jose Mercury News - October 23, 2006
Net Neutrality Gives Equal Access to InternetIf dissemination of information is based on financial status, our freedom of information and speech will be affected for decades to come.
Quad City Times - October 22, 2006
Stakes High in Internet Reform EffortInternet content providers may have to pay increasing amounts of money to get onto the Web, depending upon the outcome of a complex, little-noticed, but growing, legislative battle.
Cape Cod Times - October 22, 2006
More Concessions from AT&T SoughtConsumer groups say concessions offered by AT&T as it seeks government approval of its buyout of BellSouth fall far short of what's needed for the deal to be in the public interest.
Associated Press - October 20, 2006
Should AT&T Decide the Future of the Internet?It's simple. Provide a better product and let the customers decide. Isn't that one of the most basic tenets of a free and competitive marketplace? Not according to AT&T, Verizon, Comcast and their well-heeled army of legislators, lobbyists and shills.
SavetheInternet.com - October 20, 2006
Could Information Superhighway Become Toll Road?Should telecom and cable companies be able to influence what Web sites you visit? That's a key question in the debate surrounding Net Neutrality. Cast your vote for Net Neutrality now.
KOIN-TV (Portland, Ore.) - October 19, 2006
David Isenberg Reviews 'The Net at Risk'Bill Moyers' documentary, "The Net at Risk" is the only piece of in-depth reporting on telecom policy that has aired on television -- a fact that says a lot about the state of media in this country.
WorldChanging - October 19, 2006
Verizon Likely to Push for NYS Video FranchiseWith changes in franchise rules stalled in Washington, Verizon is likely to soon push for statewide franchises in the profitable eastern states. And New York is a prime target.
New York Indy Media - October 19, 2006
Delay Allows Time to Amend Penn. Video Franchise BillSponsors of legislation to streamline the entry of telecos into the cable television market in Penn. have decided not to run the bills until the new Legislature convenes next year. This is a wise choice.
Patriot-News (Harrisburg, Penn.) - October 19, 2006
The Telco Lobby Abhors an Organized PublicA live Web debate featuring Free Press Policy Director Ben Scott and phone company flack Mike McCurry of the Astroturf organization Hands off the Internet began after the "Moyers on America" documentary, "The Net at Risk." The debate shouldn't end there.
SavetheInternet.com - October 19, 2006
Critics Consider AT&T Merger ConditionsIn an effort to win over Democratic FCC Commissioners Michael Copps and Jonathan Adelstein, AT&T is reiterating its claims that the deal -- worth an estimated $67 billion to $80 billion -- is in the public interest.
Light Reading - October 19, 2006
Crime Is On TV, But TV Is Often the Bigger CrimeThe airwaves, as we know, belong to all of us, but thanks to regulations shaped by big industries, they were allocated for free to big commercial enterprises who then used their clout to monopolize the marketplace and dominate the spectrum.
MediaChannel - October 18, 2006
Congress Must Keep Broadband Competition AliveNet Neutrality legislation alone will not solve the problems of media consolidation. But it will make sure that the one bright spot in the internet economy -- the one place where vigorous competition continues -- will be protected.
Financial Times - October 18, 2006
Net Neutrality on PBS: Tune In and Log OnTune in to PBS tonight to see the SavetheInternet.com Coalition featured in "The Net at Risk," a documentary produced by award-winning journalist Bill Moyers.
Huffington Post - October 18, 2006
Oregon Speaks Out for Net NeutralitySen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) today joined large and small business owners, labor leaders and consumer advocates in calling on Congress to protect Net Neutrality -- the endangered principle that ensures all Web sites and services are treated equally.
Free Press - October 18, 2006
On the Issues -- Net NeutralityA Republican State Senator from Hawaii strongly believes in the power of the free market. And Net Neutrality, she says, gives us the freest market, for both ideas and products, in the history of civilization.
Hawaii Reporter - October 18, 2006
Unexpected Face Time for Network NeutralityThe AT&T-BellSouth merger vote was postponed by FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell's recusal. And that gave Democratic Commissioners Michael Copps and Jonathan Adelstein more power to continue the debate about merger conditions.
Internet News - October 18, 2006
AT&T: Let Them Eat Cheap DSLAT&T has begun throwing crumbs consumers' way in a desperate attempt to get the FCC to approve its buyout of BellSouth. The latest, $10-per-month, low-speed DSL, is one more slap in consumers' faces.
Computer World - October 18, 2006
Not Too Late to Keep the Internet FreeNet Neutrality is not a sexy issue, nor is it easy to understand. But the bottom line is, the internet is the last truly democratic forum we have for unfettered public commerce and discussion. Watch the Bill Moyers documentary, <i>The Net at Risk</i>, ton
Detroit News - October 18, 2006
Bill Moyers and Net NeutralityIf you haven't been watching "Moyers on America" on PBS, you're missing out. This week's episode focuses on Net Neutrality, whether corporations should charge us for the Internet and media ownership.
Austinist - October 18, 2006
'Moyers on America' Brings Heated Debate to National Television and Online with 'The Net at Risk'The first major documentary on Net Neutrality premiers on "Moyers on America" tonight on PBS. A live discussion follows online at http://www.pbs.org/moyers with Mike McCurry of Hands Off the Internet and Ben Scott of SavetheInternet.com.
Pubic Affairs Television - October 18, 2006
AT&T Might Lock Rates to Win BellSouth OKThe Computer & Communications Industry Association dismissed the AT&T's proposed concessions, saying AT&T is already bound by such rules from its merger last year with SBC.
IDG News Service - October 18, 2006
Moyers: Save the Most Democratic of MediaHow ironic if the Internet should pass irretrievably into history just as the very seeds for the digital revolution are being sown. But that's just what may happen, says Bill Moyers. His special, <i>The Net at Risk</i>, airs tonight on PBS.
SavetheInternet.com - October 18, 2006
Lafayette’s Fiber Fight Featured on Bill Moyers DocumentaryLafayette's two-year battle with telecoms to establish a high-speed fiber network will be featured tonight on "Moyers on America: The Net at Risk."
Lafayette Daily Advertiser - October 17, 2006
Against an Imperial InternetThe monopolists tell us not to worry: They will take care of us, and see to it that the public interest is honored and democracy served by this most remarkable of technologies. Will future historians speak of an Internet Golden Age that ended when the 21s
TomPaine.com - October 17, 2006
Oregon Senator Addresses the Internet at RiskSen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) will speak about Net Neutrality and the fight in Congress over the future of the Internet at a press conference on Wednesday in Portland.
Glendale Oregon News - October 17, 2006
Net Neutrals: Pleading Their Case in PortlandiaOn Wednesday morning, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) will headline a press conference at Powell's on Net Neutrality.
Oregonian Blog - October 17, 2006
No Room for Neutrality on Net NeutralityThe public discourse on Net Neutrality has been polluted by the telecom industry to needlessly problematizing issues that are already settled in the scientific community, and propping up positions that would be discredited in any objective analysis.
Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center - October 17, 2006
Oops: AT&T-BellSouth Forgets Net NeutralityAT&T-BellSouth has filed a new version of its proposed merger conditions with the FCC. It corrects a "typo" that omitted from the Net Neutrality condition, that they would only adhere to Net Neutrality rules for 30 months.
Broadcasting & Cable - October 17, 2006
AT&T’s Promises to FCC Are Full of HolesMemos bouncing around between AT&T and the FCC appear to have AT&T pledging that if the FCC breaks its 2-2 deadlock and approves the acquisition of BellSouth, then AT&T will be good. But the language is so generalized that it is full of holes.
ZDNet - October 17, 2006
Lieberman Opts for Net Neutrality Sell-OutSen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) has announced that, while he suppports Net Neutrality, he is going to vote for the telecom industry's bill.
ZDNet - October 17, 2006
AT&T, BellSouth Shares Fall After FCC Delay on DealAT&T and BellSouth shares fell after the FCC announced a delay on their merger approval. Although the telcos are confident the deal with go through, some analysts say that a further delay may cause problems for the merger.
Reuters - October 17, 2006
AT&T Makes Some Net Neutrality ConcessionsAT&T is willing to adhere to the FCC Net Neutrality principles for only 30 months after the official closing of its proposed merger with BellSouth.
Internet News - October 17, 2006
Springfield, Mo., Proposed Ordinance Protects ConsumersIn response to AT&T's attempt to gain a video franchise agreement that is not inclusive and won't pay fees for rights-of-way, Springfield, Mo., has proposed a local ordinance that would ensure fair access and treat all franchisees equally.
News-Leader - October 17, 2006
AT&T’s '30-Month' Net Neutrality Merger Trade-in Offer: What a Joke!AT&T's offer underscores why permanent network neutrality safeguards are worth fighting for. The very companies who will provide the vast majority of broadband service, such as AT&T, really don't want the public to have it.
Digital Destiny - October 16, 2006
AT&T Suggests Possible Merger ConditionsThe concessions AT&T are offering in their merger with BellSouth are certainly a step in the right direction, but they come with a few caveats: They have their own definition of broadband, and many of consumer-friendly provisions expire after 30 months.
ars technica - October 16, 2006
Joe Lieberman Sells Out the InternetSen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) says that he supports the principle of Net Neutrality, but he will vote for the telecom industry's bill which was approved by the Senate Commerce Committee without any Net Neutrality provision.
Isen Blog - October 16, 2006
Net-Neutrality, AT&T-BellSouth MergerIncluded in AT&T's list of potential concessions for it's proposed merger with BellSouth is the adherence to the FCC's network neutrality principles for a limited amount of time -- 30 months post-merger.
Broadband Reports - October 16, 2006
Bell Buyout BlockedJonathan Adelstein and Michael Copps, the two Democrats on the five-member FCC, have thrown a monkey wrench into AT&T's proposed $18-billion buyout of Bellsouth. Good for them.
Seattle Times - October 16, 2006
House, Senate Leaders Push AT&T-BellSouth VoteSenate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) and House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Joe Barton (R-Tex.), said the FCC has had plenty of time to consider the AT&T-BellSouth merger and plenty of input already.
Broadcasting & Cable - October 16, 2006
Consumer Advocates Criticize AT&T DealConsumer advocates say the new concessions AT&T has offered to close its $80 billion merger with BellSouth don't go far enough to preserve competition.
USA Today - October 16, 2006
Following Protests from Democrats, Martin Delays Debate on MergerThere is widespread speculation that FCC Chairman Kevin Martin wants the agency to act on the AT&T-BellSouth merger before Election Day to shelter its decision from repercussions if the Democrats take over one or both houses of Congress.
National Journal - October 16, 2006
AT&T-BellSouth Merger Approval StalledThe FCC delayed a vote on the AT&T and BellSouth merger today and rescheduled the issue for Nov. 3.
Internet News - October 16, 2006
Moyers Weighs In on Net NeutralityWith the Net Neutrality battle being waged among big telecom corporations and media reform and consumer groups, "Big Media" critic Bill Moyers will tackle the subject in the final installment of his "Moyers on America" series of specials on PBS.
Broadcasting & Cable - October 16, 2006
Q&A: Bill MoyersJournalist Bill Moyers worries that big money is squeezing the life out of democratic processes. Now big corporations want to control the Internet -- the most revolutionary democratic phenomenon of our time. His documentary about it airs this week.
Boston Globe - October 15, 2006
Cable Plan Upsets OfficialsOfficials sounded off on a bill in Michigan that they believe would strip communities of the power to regulate cable service and put it in the hands of the state, calling it a "deregulation of the whole cable industry" in the state.
Detroit News - October 14, 2006
AT&T Yields to Objections from FCCIn an attempt to get FCC approval for its merger with BellSouth, AT&T agreed to provisions that would include more access for low-income customers but does not fully include Net Neutrality.
San Antonio Express-News - October 14, 2006
FCC Postpones AT&T Vote to Review ProposalsThe FCC delayed a vote on the buyout of BellSouth by AT&T after commission Democrats requested more time to evaluate last-minute concessions proposed by AT&T and make them available for public comment.
Associated Press - October 14, 2006
FCC Seeks Comment on Proposals Submitted by AT&TThe FCC is seeking comment on the proposed conditions set forth by AT&T in regard to the merger with BellSouth. Comments are due by October 24.
Federal Communications Commission - October 13, 2006
FCC Puts Off Vote on Deal by AT&TAT&T's drive to win regulatory approval for its takeover of BellSouth stalled as the FCC put off a decision on the matter until next month.
Chicago Tribune - October 13, 2006
Free Press Applauds Commissioners for Defending the Public InterestFree Press applauds FCC Commissioners Michael Copps and Jonathan Adelstein for their principled defense of the public interest in considering the AT&T-BellSouth merger.
Free Press - October 13, 2006
FCC Dems Block AT&T-BellSouth VoteA big monkey wrench appears to have been lobbed into FCC Chairman Kevin Martin's plans to vote on the AT&T-BellSouth merger.
Broadcasting & Cable - October 13, 2006
FCC and the AT&T Merger: Why You Should CareIn FCC Chairman Kevin Martin's view the proposed AT&T-BellSouth merger does not raise a significant threat to Internet choice or Net Neutrality. Regrettably, this view ignores the enormous market power that a new AT&T would wield.
Huffington Post - October 13, 2006
Rep. John Conyers Tells FCC to Protect Consumers in AT&T MergerRep. John Conyers (D-Mich.) cautioned FCC Chairman Kevin Martin to take a more measured approach to examining the AT&T-BellSouth merger and consider appropriate safeguards which will protect consumer interests and competition.
Office of Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.) - October 13, 2006
AT&T BellSouth Purchase Hits Snag as FCC Delays VoteThe FCC postponed a vote on AT&T's proposed $81 billion purchase of BellSouth after Democrats on the panel demanded more public comment on the transaction.
Bloomberg News - October 13, 2006
FCC Cancels October Meeting on Proposed MergerThe FCC canceled its meeting to discuss, and most likely vote on, the pending AT&T-BellSouth merger. Democratic Commissioners Michael J. Copps and Jonathan S. Adelstein have requested reviews of the merger's requirements.
New Telephony - October 13, 2006
FCC Vote on AT&T-BellSouth DelayedThe FCC meeting for the vote on the AT&T-BellSouth merger had been expected to begin at about 11 a.m. but was not underway as of noon. An FCC spokesman declined to comment.
Reuters - October 13, 2006
Mega-Merger vs. Internet FreedomIn 2006, AT&T is poised to control all electronic media -- not just telephones, but TV, music and the Web -- that will enter homes. And it sees Net Neutrality as a major obstacle to this multibillion-dollar scheme.
SavetheInternet.com - October 13, 2006
Consumer Fears Could Delay AT&T AcquisitionThe FCC is scheduled to consider AT&T's nearly $80 billion purchase of BellSouth today, but disagreements between Republican and Democratic commissioners could delay action again, perhaps for weeks.
San Jose Mercury News - October 13, 2006
A Growing Free for AllBy approving the merger between AT&T and BellSouth unconditionally, the Bush administration has again abdicated responsibility for protecting consumers when huge companies combine.
New York Times - October 13, 2006
AT&T: Waiting for the FCC's CallThe biggest U.S. phone company may need to make hefty concessions to win approval for the BellSouth takeover. So, what's on the table?
Business Week - October 13, 2006
Bill Moyers on Broadband, Digital Divide, Net NeutralityA <i>Moyers on America</i> program is scheduled to air next week that looks at the U.S. approach to the Internet and broadband, and why we're lagging so far behind the rest of the developed world.
Wi-Fi Networking News - October 13, 2006
Will FCC In-Fighting Kill the AT&T BellSouth Merger?FCC Chairman Kevin Martin never saw a mega-merger he didn't like, but the Democrats on the FCC may be able to squash the AT&T BellSouth merger, or at least force the FCC to add consumer-friendly provisions to the deal.
Computer World - October 13, 2006
FCC Poised to Vote on AT&T DealPreparing for a vote set for today, the five members of the FCC worked to hammer out an agreement on the AT&T merger with BellSouth. Issues yet to be resolved include Net Neutrality, interconnection, and divestiture of some spectrum holdings.
San Antonio Express-News - October 13, 2006
BellSouth Urges Court to Send Tariff Case Back to FCCBellSouth urged the federal D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals to send back to the FCC a case involving a longstanding and unchallenged government interpretation of an anti-discrimination section of the Communications Act.
National Journal - October 12, 2006
On the Verge of VictoryThough groups working to preserve Net Neutrality have been outspent by an unspeakable factor, millions of Internet users spread the word and besieged Congress with e-mails, petitions, calls, and visits -- so many that Congress got scared.
Working for Change - October 12, 2006
AT&T-BellSouth Deal Gets Antitrust ApprovalThe proposed $78bn merger between AT&T Inc and BellSouth Corp moved one step closer to completion when the US Justice Department's Antitrust Division approved the deal.
Computer Business Review - October 12, 2006
NAACP's Huffman Assailed for Tobacco, Telecom PaymentsThe president of the California NAACP is on retainer by AT&T for $12,000 per month -- a fact she never disclosed to her organization even as she testified on behalf of the NAACP in support of major state video franchise legislation.
Capitol Weekly - October 12, 2006
AT&T, Bell South Merger Vote DelayedThe FCC delayed the vote that would reunite key parts of Ma Bell until tomorrow, but didn't explain why. But telecom industry watchers think they know.
Market Place - October 12, 2006
Dingell to FCC: Don't Rubber-Stamp AT&T-BellSouth MergerA key Democratic congressman has made what amounts to a last-ditch appeal that the FCC avoid rubber-stamping the AT&T-BellSouth merger.
Telecom Web - October 12, 2006
FCC Delays AT&T-BellSouth Merger VoteAT&T and BellSouth will have to keep the champagne on ice for at least another day. The telephone giants are on hold as the FCC delays a vote on the merger for a day.
Internet News - October 12, 2006
AT&T Offers Concessions to get FCC OK on BellSouthAT&T wants unanimous approval from the FCC to acquire BellSouth and has offered some concessions to the agency.
Reuters - October 12, 2006
Narrowing the NetThe Bush administration has taken a dive on the crucial issue of keeping the Internet open and is preparing for more. As a result, the industry has settled into the biggest near-duopoly ever created.
TomPaine.com - October 12, 2006
DOJ Defends AT&T-BellSouth InvestigationCharged by FCC Democrats with taking a dive and "reckless abandonment" of consumers, the Justice Department defended its decision that the $67 billion merger of AT&T and BellSouth did not raise anti-competitive issues sufficient to attach conditions.
Broadcasting & Cable - October 12, 2006
Democrats on FCC Criticize Justice Dept.'s OK of MergerThe FCC's two Democratic members harshly criticized the Justice Department for approving the $78 billion AT&T-BellSouth merger without conditions.
National Journal - October 12, 2006
FCC Commissioners Copps and Adelstein Are Voices of Reason in AT&T-BellSouth MergerHow refreshing to have officials who work for the public and not on behalf of a handful of self-serving media giants. FCC Commissioners Copps and Adelstein have made a powerful and honest critique about what is at stake with the AT&T-BellSouth merger.
Digital Destiny - October 12, 2006
FCC Puts Off AT&T-BellSouth Merger VoteOn Friday, the FCC is to take up the AT&T proposal as well as a controversial issue known as Net Neutrality, which deals with whether Internet service providers must provide equal treatment to all traffic on their networks.
Associated Press - October 12, 2006
Is Net Neutrality Important to Your Business?Sen. Susan Collins (D-Maine) is meeting with constituents to talk about Net Neutrality and strategize how to reinstate this basic premise of the Internet.
MaineToday.com - October 12, 2006
Assistant Attorney General Issues Statement About AT&T-BellSouth MergerThomas O. Barnett, Assistant Attorney General in charge of the Department of Justice's Antitrust Division, issued a statement after the Department announced its approval the proposed acquisition of BellSouth by AT&T without conditions.
U.S. Department of Justice - October 11, 2006
FCC Delays Vote on AT&T-BellSouth Until FridayThe FCC delayed by one day a vote on AT&T's purchase of BellSouth. The agency said it was working to complete its review.
Reuters - October 11, 2006
FCC Vote on AT&T, BellSouth Could Be DelayedChances are diminishing that the FCC will vote Thursday on AT&T purchase of BellSouth Corp. amid haggling over possible conditions.
Reuters - October 11, 2006
DOJ Approves AT&T-BellSouth DealThe Justice Department approved AT&T's buyout of BellSouth, clearing a major hurdle for reuniting two modernized parts of the old Ma Bell phone monopoly that the government broke up in 1984.
Associated Press - October 11, 2006
DOJ Rubber Stamp on AT&T/BellSouth Merger Sells Out ConsumersConsumer groups blasted the Justice Department for approving without restriction the merger between telephone giants AT&T and BellSouth, a move likely to leave consumers with fewer choices and higher prices.
HearUsNow.org - October 11, 2006
DoJ Quiet as FCC Readies AT&T/BellSouth DecisionThe FCC has put the AT&T-BellSouth merger on its Oct. 12 meeting agenda, raising speculation that the regulator's green light likely will be coordinated with a U.S. Department of Justice nod.
Telecom Web - October 11, 2006
An Informed Society Needs Net NeutralityPeople pay for Internet access with the understanding that they are accessing a wide, level field of sites where only their preferences will guide them. Non-neutrality changes the very essence of the Internet, making the product less valuable to users.
Yale Daily News - October 11, 2006
Net Neutrality Back on FCC's AgendaNet Neutrality proponents want the FCC to attach provisions to the AT&T-BellSouth merger that require equal handling of broadband network traffic.
Internet News - October 11, 2006
FCC’s McDowell Drops Out of AT&T-BellSouth ProceedingOne of the three Republicans of the five-member, GOP-controlled FCC has decided not to participate in the agency's vote on the proposed $67 million merger between AT&T and BellSouth because of a conflict of interest.
RCR Wireless News - October 11, 2006
Richard Merryweather Speaks Up for the MergerIn this spoof from We Own the Net, CT&TCOM President & CEO Richard Merryweather's interview concerns the merger with NorthBell. (Video, two parts - 5:10 & 4:30)
WeOwnTheNet.org - October 11, 2006
It's Our Net Concerned over AT&T/BellSouth Merger VoteIt's Our Net coalition, led by big computer companies including Microsoft, Google, Yahoo! and others, say they are concerned about the FCC's planned vote on the AT&T-BellSouth merger and its plan to open a notice of inquiry into Net Neutrality.
Broadcasting & Cable - October 10, 2006
AT&T, BellSouth Expected to Clear Merger ReviewThe Justice Department is expected to approve AT&T's $67 billion purchase of BellSouth as early as today with few or no conditions.
Wall Street Journal - October 10, 2006
AT&T-BellSouth Merger Set for VoteAT&T and BellSouth may receive federal permission this week to consummate a massive merger that would create the largest phone company in the United States.
MarketWatch - October 10, 2006
Now That's an Agenda!The FCC has posted the agenda for its open meeting on Oct. 12 that includes the AT&T-BellSouth merger, Net Neutrality, cable competition and white spaces.
Public Knowledge - October 10, 2006
Decision by FCC Expected to Be Key Test in AT&T Takeover BidThe drive by AT&T to take over BellSouth by the end of the year will be tested this week, when the FCC will either rule on the merger or decide to delay taking action.
Chicago Tribune - October 10, 2006
On Telecommunications, a Healthy FailureDespite the absence of a new telecommunications law this year, the legislation is still widely viewed as a success because it changed the framing of the debate on cable franchises and Net Neutrality.
New York Sun - October 10, 2006
Power Players in Net NeutralityAt Salon, there's an interesting read about the grassroots organizations taking on large telecom companies in the fight for Net Neutrality.
Dropping Knowledge - October 10, 2006
The Power of YouTube Video in Net Neutrality FightThe power to pitch and persuade, particularly on issues of political or social importance, is definitely shifting to "the people" as cheap-to-make "Save the Internet" videos pop up all over the web.
IP Democracy - October 10, 2006
Debate Could Shape Future of InternetMany in the Internet community -– especially content providers and nonprofits -– are concerned that the federal Telecommunications Act would create a two-tier Internet or, even worse, block access to some sites and services.
Providence Business News - October 10, 2006
Grassroots Movement Wants Laws to Keep Big Media from Controlling InternetProponents of federal legislation to preserve Net Neutrality say companies like Cablevision and Verizon shouldn't be permitted to charge content providers a fee to ensure its smooth and quick arrival to consumers' screens.
Newsday - October 10, 2006
High School Student Is Net Neutrality AdvocateA high school student's web site will display his activities as he stays up for seven days straight to raise awareness for Net Neutrality.
The Hosting News - October 9, 2006
FCC: AT&T Now Guards the CheeseIt seems apparent that many in the government are beginning to publicly state that mega-mergers aren't helping consumers -- and that giving too much control to a single massive telecom company may be like putting the mouse in charge of the cheese.
TMC Net - October 9, 2006
Get LoudThe big telecoms and cable companies want to build "HOT" lanes on the Internet and charge companies and individuals who want their data transmitted over them. This two-tiered system would allow the big companies better access than the rest of us.
Fredicksburg Free Lance-Star - October 9, 2006
Sen. Tunney Still Shining the Light on Antitrust EnforcementThe telephone industry and the Department of Justice have not learned their Nixon-era lessons. AT&T and Verizon have taken a page from the ITT playbook and slipped acquisitions of their largest competitors past antitrust scrutiny.
San Francisco Chronicle - October 6, 2006
Verizon May Lobby States on TV Service RulesVerizon is likely to abandon efforts to pursue federal rules, easing the sale of television service if pending legislation fails this year. Instead focus will be on obtaining statewide agreements in Massachusetts, New York and Pennsylvania.
Bloomberg News - October 6, 2006
FCC Sets Oct. 12 Vote on AT&T-BellSouth MergerBrushing aside political pressure, FCC Chairman Kevin Martin scheduled a vote for next week on whether to approve AT&T's estimated $67 billion purchase of BellSouth.
MarketWatch - October 6, 2006
FCC Sets Oct. 12 Vote on AT&T-BellSouth DealFCC Chairman Kevin Martin set a date for two votes: Approving without conditions AT&T purchase of BellSouth and launching a review into the "practices of the high-speed Internet industry" (translation: Net Neutrality).
Reuters - October 5, 2006
Here's the FCC's Playbook for Burying Net NeutralityThe FCC is planning in the next couple of weeks to begin an inquiry into Net Neutrality. On the surface, that might appear to be an enlightened, even noble, action for the agency to take. It's not.
TPM Cafe - October 5, 2006
Media Conglomerates Threaten Net NeutralityThe idea of Net Neutrality is that the Internet should always be an open and diverse environment where we can share opinions and visit any site at any time and use whatever applications we choose.
Polytechnic Online - October 5, 2006
Markey Supports Net NeutralityNet Neutrality is critical to the development of new Internet Protocol-based applications and low-cost telephone services, said Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) at a technology trade show.
Lexington Minuteman - October 5, 2006
Cable Ties Itself Up in Net Neutrality KnotsNet Neutrality embodies the same anti-discrimination principles that cable relies on for its situational-ethics analysis of interconnection and competition.
Public Knowledge - October 4, 2006
Microsoft Proxy Can Omit Neutrality IssueU.S. regulators said Microsoft does not have to include in its proxy a shareholder proposal demanding that the software maker justify its support for Net Neutrality.
Reuters - October 4, 2006
California Authorizes Statewide Cable TV FranchisesThe telcos in California rolled over cities, consumers and cable systems and succeeded in their bid for a state franchise system. Now both the telecom and cable companies are revving up their "triple play bundles," which could violate Net Neutrality.
Consumer Affairs - October 3, 2006
Congress Adjourns with Tech Bills UnfinishedWhen the U.S. Congress adjourned in the early morning hours Saturday, it left a number of technology-related bills unfinished, including the wide-ranging telecom bill.
IDG News Service - October 3, 2006
Google: We Love Republicans, Too!Google, looking to become a big player in D.C., has recently hired some of the most influential former Republican congressmen and power players to staff its new political action committee.
Computer World - October 2, 2006
Net-Roots Army Slays Giants in D.C.Members of Congress this week returned home without passing the telecom bill. It's possible, though, that Senator Stevens will push his bad legislation through during the "lame duck" session. We must let our representatives know we want Internet freedom.
Huffington Post - October 2, 2006
A 10-Point Formulation for Internet FreedomA new report, "New Network Neutrality: Criteria for Internet Freedom," was unveiled at the annual Telecommunications Policy and Research Conference.
MuniWireless - October 2, 2006
Senate Commerce Committee Issues Report on H.R. 5252The Senate Commerce Committee has issued a report on its telecom bill, Communications Opportunity, Promotion, and Enhancement Act of 2006.
Senate Commerce Committee - October 2, 2006
The Telecom SlayersIn the Capitol Hill battle over Net Neutrality, a ragtag army of grass-roots Internet groups, armed with low-budget videos, music parodies and petitions, have the corporate telecoms, and their allies in Congress, on the run.
Salon.com - October 2, 2006
We Can't Become Victims of a Corporate InternetIf we want to preserve a medium where anyone can express their ideas and make them available to the public on equal footing with big companies, Congress must take action to reinstate Net Neutrality.
Tallahassee Democrat - October 2, 2006
Locals Say Yes to Net NeutralityWithout Net Neutrality, Internet service providers could charge extra to make a Web site load faster, thus slowing down other Web sites that do not pay. Many Michigan businesses support Internet freedom.
Hometown Life - September 29, 2006
Catholic Bishops Support Net NeutralityWith no safeguards for Net Neutrality, religious groups, including the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, fear that Internet service providers will discriminate against them and charge them extra for the same level and speed of service they now receive.
Catholic News Service - September 29, 2006
Cable Lawsuit Against Texas Video Law DismissedA federal judge dismissed a cable industry challenge to a 2005 Texas law that eased the way for phone companies to sell video service.
Austin American-Statesman - September 29, 2006
Internet Neutrality With Sen Ted StevensSenator Ted Stevens(Rep) is stooping to new lows to try and get his Internet Neutrality bill passed.
Blogger News Network - September 29, 2006
The FCC ScandalMedia policy-making has been properly described for some time as "scandalous." Now the quotation marks can be removed; the scandal is official.
The Nation - September 29, 2006
New Report Skewers Telco Spin on the Digital DivideWhy has the U.S. fallen behind the rest of the world in accessible and affordable broadband service? The answer, according to a new report, is marketplace failures wrought by phone and cable companies' near monopoly control of last-mile broadband markets.
Digital Divide Network - September 28, 2006
Fee Fi Fo FiOSVerizon updated analysts and investors on the progress of their FiOS deployment.
Broadband Reports - September 28, 2006
Web Pioneer: No Internet Without Net NeutralityThe man who invented the World-Wide-Web sees the phone and cable company plan to gut Net Neutrality as a looming threat to free speech and economic innovation in America.
SavetheInternet.com - September 28, 2006
Rural Areas Left in Slow Lane of High-Speed Data HighwayInstead of upgrading customers to high-speed Internet access, Verizon is looking to sell the 1.6 million local phone lines it controls in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, keeping much of rural New England's economy in the slow lane.
New York Times - September 28, 2006
Safeguarding the Internet Key to the Future of Our DemocracyIf we wish to keep the real power of the Internet -- its equalizing nature -- we need to guard against the creation of a framework that provides special benefits for a privileged few. We do not want a world where some packets are more equal than others.
DailyKos - September 27, 2006
Net Neutrality Is New Challenge for Internet PioneerPeople who talk about dismantling Net Neutrality don't appreciate how important it has been for us to have an independent market for productivity and for applications on the Internet.
New York Times - September 27, 2006
Consumer Groups Eye Curbs on AT&TConsumer groups opposed to AT&T's purchase of BellSouth said the FCC should impose conditions on the deal that would insure Net Neutrality.
Red Orbit - September 26, 2006
What Scott Cleland (and Co.) Doesn’t Get About Net NeutralityThe Net Neutrality fight is about having a U.S. digital media system where all forms of content can conveniently and affordably be created, distributed and received through TVs, PCs, and mobile devices.
Digital Destiny - September 25, 2006
Net Neutrality Fight Moves to Pennsylvania LegislatureNow that the Stevens bill is dying in Congress, the Bells are taking a different approach and trying to sneak through bills at the state level.
MyDD - September 25, 2006
California Tries Its Hand at Telecom RegulationThe author gets it wrong about the ability of the California video franchise bill to lower prices significantly, but at least he understands the importance of Net Neutrality in any state franchising legislation that will benefit consumers.
San Jose Mercury News - September 25, 2006
New Website Parodies Grandma BellA new website, <a href="http://www.weownthenet.org/"><b>WeOwnTheNet.org</b></a>, lets the consumer in on what the telcos are really thinking.
WeOwnTheNet.org - September 25, 2006
FCC Head: AT&T-BellSouth Deal OKThe chairman of the Federal Communications Commission is recommending approval of AT&T's $67 billion purchase of BellSouth.
Associated Press - September 23, 2006
Stevens: Net Neutrality a 'Fetish'Despite the Senate Commerce Committee directly circulating incumbent astroturfing materials the past few weeks, Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) is still having a hard time getting the 60 votes he needs to pass his telecom bill.
Broadband Reports - September 22, 2006
Net Neutrality Likely to Stall Telecom Bill for GoodWhat would have been the first major piece of telecom legislation in 10 years, if passed, looks to be pretty much dead in the water at this point, according to its most visible proponent, Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska).
IT Business Edge - September 22, 2006
Senate Telecom Bill Still Short of Votes: StevensU.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) said he was still unable to muster enough votes for his telecom bill, which could die if Republicans lose power in the November elections.
Reuters - September 22, 2006
Lawyers: Video Franchise Law Won't Make ItThe telcos' frustration with the stalled national telecom bill is being tempered by their push for statewide video franchise bills.
Light Reading - September 22, 2006
Senator Stevens Spams for the TelcosSen. Ted Stevens' desperation is beginning to show. With his telecommunications legislation in the DC doldrums, the good senator from Alaska has resorted to spamming his colleagues with phone company propaganda.
SavetheInternet.com - September 22, 2006
Ted Stevens Plugs Choice -- But Not for the InternetSen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) is still trying to pass the telecom bill, but a new poll paid for by Verizon is undermining his cause because it shows what the public really wants in a telecom policy.
TPM Cafe - September 22, 2006
Stevens Vows to Move Telecom Bill after ElectionSenate Commerce Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) vowed to move his telecom bill during a post-election congressional session -- tentatively slated to begin in mid-November.
National Journal - September 21, 2006
Pro-Net Neutrality Nuggets Are Buried in Verizon's PollThe Verizon-sponsored poll on video choice not only bolstered the case for Net Neutrality, but also provided the seeds to start a wider discussion of a new broadband policy for the country.
Public Knowledge - September 21, 2006
Telecom Reform Hopes FadingWith the Senate planning a Sept. 29 adjournment for the fall elections, Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) told a packed luncheon sponsored by the Progress and Freedom Foundation, "It [telecom reform] obviously can't be done before the recess."
Internet News - September 21, 2006
Vogeler Calls on Senator Kohl to Support Free Speech on the InternetDespite many requests to make his stance on Net Neutrality known, Sen. Herb Kohl (D-Wis.) has not come out with an answer. But his rival, Green Party candidate Rae Vogeler, firmly supports Net Neutrality.
Dane 101 - September 21, 2006
Net Neutrality and What a Bad Poll Looks LikeA new poll purports to show that attitudes are overwhelmingly favorable toward the Stevens bill. But one look at the survey design and it’s clear that this is little more than a push poll.
PolicyMatters.net - September 21, 2006
McCain: Telecom Bill Not Dead YetSen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) told technology company leaders that a major telecommunications bill is not dead and could see Senate floor action in a lame-duck session.
National Journal - September 21, 2006
Glover Park, Rip-off Strategists and Unethical Behavior in the Polling CommunityThe idea is that rather than argue on the merits of net neutrality, an argument the telecom companies have already lost, they will argue that the Stevens bill is really really popular.
MyDD - September 21, 2006
Senate Committee Uses Sleazy Poll to Kill Net NeutralityA key Senate committee is using a phony poll to try and kill Net Neutrality. Funded by one of Net Neutrality's biggest foes -- Verizon --the poll's findings are the exact opposite of what the committee says they are.
Computer World - September 21, 2006
Stevens' Net Neutrality Poll Down the TubesSen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) thinks we're stupid. Trying to scuttle the Net Neutrality debate, he distributed the results of a "bipartisan" poll without mentioning that Verizon paid $60,000 for it.
Web Pro News - September 20, 2006
Budget Office Pegs Bill Cost At $5.2 BillionPosing yet another hurdle to Senate consideration of the telcom bill, the Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill would increase U.S. government spending.
National Journal - September 20, 2006
Best Interest of Enterprise Organizations Is to Support Net NeutralityEnterprises may find that without Net Neutrality protections, customers and suppliers may no longer be able to reach web/enterprise services with acceptable performance.
Market Wire - September 20, 2006
Senator Stevens Spams for the TelcosSen. Ted Stevens' desperation is beginning to show. With his telecom legislation in the D.C. doldrums, the good senator from Alaska has resorted to spamming his colleagues with phone company propaganda.
SavetheInternet.com - September 20, 2006
Replaced by a Chimp: Life After Net NeutralityThe dumbing-down of broadband is more likely in the absence of Net Neutrality rules. Expect media conglomerates and advertisers to flood our broadband networks with chimps selling beer and ketchup-colored clowns pushing fast food.
The Nation - September 20, 2006
Representative Ed Markey Talks Up Net NeutralityCongressman Ed Markey (D-Mass.)recently spoke at the Fall VON conference. He spoke about the importance of Net Neutrality and future uses of the Internet and voice technology that can help keep the U.S. competitive.
VoIP News - September 19, 2006
Commerce Poll on Telecom Bill Reeks of DesperationAll of this shameless corporate-sponsored lobbying reflects nothing other than last-ditch desperation by Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), who is almost out of time to pass his telecom reform bill.
IP Democracy - September 19, 2006
Network Neutrality: An Inside-the-Beltway-Only Issue?While those polled on video choice may not have understood the Verizon-backed survey's poorly described definition of Net Neutrality, their answers showed they support the concept.
Telecom Web - September 19, 2006
Last-Minute Lobbying Intensifies on Telecom Overhaul LegislationSupporters and opponents of deregulatory telecom legislation are engaging in last-minute lobbying efforts to block, pass or alter the measure before Congress adjourns.
National Journal - September 19, 2006
Americans Don't Want Net Neutrality?The new poll on video choice is misleading. It suggests that Net Neutrality would bar Internet Service Providers from selling faster service than is available today instead of focusing on how different kinds of Internet traffic could be manipulated.
ars technica - September 19, 2006
Industry Shill Pollling Coming Out on Net NeutralityA poor quality poll on Net Neutrality is being passed around on the Hill by the telecom shills.
MyDD - September 19, 2006
Sen. Ted Stevens Applauds Net Neutrality PollSen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) has released the findings of a "bipartisan," survey on video choice vs. "onerous Net Neutrality regulations" paid for by Verizon.
U.S. Senate Commerce Committee - September 19, 2006
Stevens Embraces Telephone PollPollsters hired by Verizon presented a study today that suggests consumers overwhelming reject Net Neutrality Internet regulations but they support Sen. Ted Stevens' voluminous bill that rewrites many of the nation's communications laws.
Wall Street Journal - September 18, 2006
State AGs Send Message on Pre-emptionA letter signed by 41 state attorney generals (AGs) was sent to Congress today opposing language in the telecom bill that would block state regulators from using state consumer protection rules for wireless and VoIP services.
Wireless Week - September 18, 2006
Politicians Battle over Net NeutralityIn the Net Neutrality debate, it's important to distinguish between consumer tiers and those that would be on the Internet itself. You can pay varying fees for amounts of bandwidth, but online, the quality of access should be equal for all.
Minnesota Daily - September 18, 2006
Neutrality Measure for Web Is NeededWithout federal guarantees of Net Neutrality, an ISP could have censorship authority as sites -- even news stories -- could be blocked.
Lansing State Journal - September 17, 2006
Politician of the Year 2006, Rick Boucher — Fighter for AccessRep. Rick Boucher (D-Va.) feels strongly that content creators with no affiliation with cable or telephone companies should have equal opportunity to have their content delivered across the Internet to consumers.
Library Journal - September 16, 2006
Smith Pushes for Bill that Wyden is BlockingAccording to <i>Broadcasting & Cable</i>, Sen. Gordon Smith (R-Ore.) asked a group of media executives on Wednesday for help passing an overhaul of telecommunications laws.
Oregonian Politics Updates Index - September 16, 2006
Google Will Flex Political MusclesUnder fire on Capitol Hill, Google Inc. has boosted its political muscle by creating its first political action committee while taking steps to reach out to Republicans.
San Francisco Chronicle - September 16, 2006
Telecom Bill May Have to be DismemberedSen. Gordon Smith (R-Ore.) said that if opponents of the legislation couldn't be appeased in time to pass the total package this year, Plan B was to "take the bill in pieces."
TV Technology NewsBytes - September 15, 2006
Net Neutrality Must be MaintainedOn the Web that the telecommunications conglomerates want to colonize for their own convenience and profits, the average Internet user could get to Wal-Mart's site in an instant but would have a hard time getting to Wal-Mart Watch's site.
Madison Capital Times - September 14, 2006
Markey Cites State's IP Network RoleNetwork Neutrality is critical to the development of new Internet Protocol-based applications and low-cost telephone services, Rep. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) told a crowd of IP experts at the fall VON conference.
Metro West Daily News - September 14, 2006
AT&T Trumpets New TV Service: Is It Really An End Run Around Net Neutrality?AT&T says its broadband DSL customers will be able to watch live TV on their computers for an additional $20 a month. Critics say it's a back-door way to slam the door on Net Neutrality.
ConsumerAffairs.com - September 14, 2006
Why the U.S is a Broadband Ghetto"Broadband Reality Check II" points out that the FCC has refused to take any actions to ensure broadband competition, help us all get higher broadband speeds, and bridge the digital divide.
Computer World - September 14, 2006
Net Neutrality Tops List of 'Censored' StoriesNetwork Neutrality is the No. 1 issue on Project Censored's "2007 Top Ten Stories," the big stories the nation's mainstream news media ignored, neglected or missed last year.
Tuscon Weekly - September 14, 2006
Access-Fee Bill Roils Net Phone IndustryAs Congress debates disputed Net Neutrality laws, supporters and defenders of the concept of equal pricing for all on the Web faced off yesterday at the VON (Voice Over the Net) trade show in Boston.
Boston Globe - September 14, 2006
Don’t Neuter the NetWithout Network Neutrality legislation, free exchange of information and ideas could become commercially regulated.
Georgetown Voice - September 14, 2006
Congress Tries to Overhaul Cable -- and a Lot MoreCongress wants to reform telecommunications and cable rules, but each branch has its own approach and neither covers all the needed bases.
Washington Post - September 14, 2006
U.S. Faces Broadband Availability Crisis"Broadband Reality Check II" concludes that the United States now faces a broadband availability crisis in which a third of the nation's households remain stuck with dial up access.
Eldo Telecom - September 13, 2006
The Complicated Wireless Gaming GameAll Internet traffic from mobile phones flows through a carrier gateways that are getting more selective about who they're letting in, making it more difficult for small game companies to get to customers.
Wireless Week - September 13, 2006
The Gist: Navigating Net NeutralityMany fear that the days of egalitarian Internet service may end if Congress fails to pass a Network Neutrality law that would force Internet service providers to treat all content equally.
Dane101 - September 13, 2006
Broadband Companies Conditioning Customers To Be DisloyalWhile the press has talked up the supposedly "low" prices of DSL these days, their figures continue to be very misleading.
TechDirt - September 13, 2006
The Sad State of American BroadbandDivided into sections covering broadband penetration, speed and price, market structure, new technologies, the digital divide, FCC metrics and policy recommendations, "Broadband Reality Check II" is a biting critique of the U.S. broadband market.
ars technica - September 13, 2006
New Report Skewers Telco Spin on CompetitionWhy has the United States fallen behind the rest of the world in accessible and affordable broadband service? The answer, according to a new report, is market failures wrought by phone and cable companies.
SavetheInternet.com - September 13, 2006
Major U.S. Trade Group Makes Case for NeutralityThe American Electronics Association (AeA) released a report strongly supporting Net Neutrality and urging Congress: "Don't stifle competition and innovation by allowing network operators to change and distort what is currently a highly competitive system
SaveTheInternet.com - September 13, 2006
Bill Moyers Returns to Investigative ReportingJournalist Bill Moyers returns to investigative reporting in October with three documentaries taking on important issues facing the nation, including democratic access to the Internet.
PR Newswire - September 13, 2006
Sununu Questions Martin’s RecordSen. John Sununu (R-N.H.) Tuesday questioned some policy calls of Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin Martin at a Senate Commerce Committee hearing on whether Martin should receive another five years at the agency.
Multichannel News - September 13, 2006
Electronics Group Restates Case for Net NeutralityThe American Electronics Association reiterated its position that Congress should enact regulations to maintain the status quo with regard to broadband pricing, namely that all Internet traffic should get the same treatment at the same price.
The San Francisco Chronicle - September 13, 2006
Software Tells Cable Firms All About Bandwidth HogsThe ability to micromanage broadband networks is a touchy subject these days, especially among supporters of Net Neutrality, who advocate a hands-off approach to data traffic.
NorthJersey.com - September 13, 2006
Net Neutrality Amendment Divides Senate Down the MiddleIt would be a shame for the Senate to rush the current telecommunications bill through without lengthy debate, because it will affect millions of Americans who rely on the Internet.
The Daily Courier - September 13, 2006
Net Neutrality Bill May Die this YearA rift over net neutrality is the No. 1 issue holding up a massive communications bill and could cause it to be derailed this year.
CNet - September 13, 2006
Telecom Legislation Fails to Address Broadband AccessPending telecommunications legislation is unlikely to prevent the United States from falling further behind the rest of the world in its quest for universal high-speed Internet access, according to a report released by consumer advocates.
National Journal - September 12, 2006
Sen. Stevens: Net Neutrality May Kill Telecom BillSenate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens acknowledged Tuesday that the telecommunications legislation he has championed for more than a year is unraveling.
National Journal - September 12, 2006
May Kill Telecom Bill
Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens acknowledged Tuesday that the telecommunications legislation he has championed for more than a year is unraveling.
National Journal - September 12, 2006
FCC Ignores America's Broadband WoesThe United States continues to lag behind the rest of the world in accessible and affordable broadband service, with no signs of closing the digital divide at home, according to a new report.
Free Press - September 12, 2006
Internet Accessibility Should Remain EqualOn the tiered Internet, Web sites like Cnn.com can pay the big toll to drive on the four-lane highway, while smaller sites like The Pacer Online Edition, a university newspaper, can only afford the crowded two-way street.
The Pacer - September 12, 2006
Heed the Threat to Internet FairnessCraig Newmark, founder of the online community craigslist.org, warns that fairness on the Net is being threatened by telecommunications giants whose interests are best served by getting companies to pay for special privileges.
The Philadelphia Inquirer - September 12, 2006
Net Neutrality and the Closing of the Web WorldwideAs regulators around the world fail to regulate on Net Neutrality, Internet service providers are on the verge of finding new ways to restrict free choice of applications.
ISP-Planet - September 12, 2006
Wade Waters: Insightful RhymesTo independent hip-hop group Wade Waters, the Net Neutrality debate comes down to an attempt to further control what people see and hear.
BallerStatus - September 11, 2006
Boucher: Net Neutrality Stalls Broadband MeasureRepresentative Rick Boucher (D-Va.) weighs in on the Net Neutrality debate, an issue that threatens to sink a telecommunications reform bill.
FCW - September 11, 2006
Net Neutrality Meets Election-Year RealityMost political insiders say it doesn't look like proponents of video choice have the 60 votes they need to lift Wyden's hold -- and a Wyden staffer said he has no intention of lifting it unless he gets tough Net Neutrality language.
San Francisco Chronicle - September 8, 2006
Senate Democrats Block Efforts to Move Telecom BillDemocratic senators are using a procedural maneuver to block Republican leaders from possibly using a pending "enhanced 911" bill as a vehicle for passing major telecom legislation.
National Journal - September 8, 2006
A Serious Threat to Internet FreedomThe idea is that the Internet should be open and free, and restricted by no one. That freedom to share ideas and information, without filtering, is what makes the Internet unique. It now is at risk.
Grand Forks Herald - September 8, 2006
Cable and Phone Companies Call Net Neutrality 'Silly,' 'Mumbo Jumbo'Whatever you think about Net Neutrality, this level of debate displayed in the most recent astroturf TV clip, called "Mumbo Jumbo," is insulting and unhelpful.
ars technica - September 7, 2006
Verizon Asks FCC to Undo UnbundlingVerizon asked the FCC to excuse it from sharing its DS1 and DS3 loop and transport facilities with competing voice providers, especially cable companies.
Light Reading - September 7, 2006
Net Neutrality Spin Brigades Have Been BusyDuring the Senate break, the Senate Commerce Committee has been circulating a promotional piece to sell the telecom act. The editorials are all against Net Neutrality.
Broadband Reports - September 7, 2006
Policy Principles for Media RegulationPolicymakers should consider regulation's effect on consumers, innovation and free expression when proposing restrictions and regulations on media platforms, says a new paper by the Progress and Freedom Foundation.
Progress and Freedom Foundation - September 7, 2006
Strange Bedfellows Don’t Mind Sharing the RemoteMembers of the SavetheInternet.com Coalition presented Sen. Mitch McConnell with a petition signed by more than 5,000 Kentuckians, urging him to support Net Neutrality.
Leo Weekly - September 7, 2006
Net Neutrality Debate Stays Hot During Summer DoldrumsSupporters of Net Neutrality are using the Internet to help save it. The SavetheInternet.com coalition has sent thousands of petitions to Senate offices in 25 cities.
National Journal - September 7, 2006
Politics Squeezes Effort on BroadbandTelcos in Illinois are gearing up for a state video franchise bill.
Chicago Tribune - September 7, 2006
Battle Building over Net 'Tollgate'Few things have as much potential to create a litigation war zone next year as the possible fight over control of the pipes feeding all the content over the Internet.
National Law Journal - September 6, 2006
Pay to Play Internet: The Threat Is Real!Major telecom and cable companies are out to eliminate the open information superhighway and turn it into an information tollbooth.
Associated Content - September 6, 2006
Web Hosting Provider Aplus.net Advocates Net NeutralityWeb hosting provider Aplus.Net announces its support for Net Neutrality provisions to current telecom legislation, reflecting concerns within the Internet community that without Internet freedom, ISPs will give preference to certain websites.
HostSearch - September 5, 2006
WIPO Roundtable RoundupVery little new ground was broken at today's USPTO's WIPO Broadcast Treaty roundtable.
Public Knowledge - September 5, 2006
Fayetteville Residents Speak Up for Net NeutralityA bill before legislators could narrow the focus of the World Wide Web. A group of over 3,000 residents from Fayetteville, Arkansas have petitioned Sen. Blanche Lincoln to support Net Neutrality. <i>Video - 2:00</i>
KHBS/KHOG-TV Fayetteville - September 5, 2006
Net Neutrality: Congress Shouldn't Play FavoritesSen. Ted Stevens' homestate paper issued a strong endorsement of Net Neutrality and called for the senator to support the addition of language that would include it.
Anchorage Daily News - September 5, 2006
Video Franchise Not on Senate ScheduleAccording to the Senate Cloak Room, which keeps tabs on floor schedules rather than cloaks, the bill is not scheduled for this week, and odds lengthen that it will be considered before the post-election lame duck session, if at all.
Broadcasting & Cable - September 5, 2006
Net Neutrality for the MassesEstablishing ISP checkpoints along the Internet at which data validates itself as sourcing from a preferred provider would slow down all internet traffic by creating "toll booth" bottlenecks. It's really that simple.
WNY Media Net - September 5, 2006
Elections, Net Neutrality May Disconnect Telecom BillLawmakers returning to Washington this week will be greeted by telephone company lobbyists engaged in a final, uphill push for help in emerging as cable's competitors. But opponents have the calendar working for them.
Media Week - September 4, 2006
Snowe Puts Brakes on Toll Lanes on InternetBucking her own party leadership, Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Me.) supports Net Neutrality and championed the push to prohibit phone and cable TV companies from charging websites for faster delivery of their data.
Los Angeles Times - September 4, 2006
Fight Over Colonization of the Internet Heats UpSen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) is determined to change the rules so that Internet gatekeepers such as AT&T, Verizon, Comcast and Time Warner can create an "information superhighway" for those who pay and a dirt road for those who fail to do so.
The Nation - September 4, 2006
Dayton Supports Net NeutralitySen. Mark Dayton (D-Minn.) announced he supports putting Net Neutrality mandates back into this year's telecombill before it makes it to the floor of the Senate by the end of this month.
St. Paul Pioneer Press - September 3, 2006
Net Neutrality Support Sweeps the NationSupporters of Internet freedom took to the pavement Wednesday and Thursday in 25 cities nationwide, delivering SavetheInternet petitions to their senators and urging them to oppose the phone and cable company attempt to gut Net Neutrality.
SavetheInternet.com - September 2, 2006
Congress Unlikely to Tackle Net NeutralityPeople involved in the broadband debate say that telecommunications legislation is unlikely to pass in a highly politicized election year.
IDG News Service - September 2, 2006
Save Internet Freedom, Support Net NeutralityI stood up with the ACLU, VPirg and groups such as the Christian Coalition and the National Gun Owners to talk about a public policy issue. This is a vitally important issue that you should talk about with your senators, too.
Small Dog Electronics - September 2, 2006
Tiering, It's Not Just for Telcos AnymoreNew Internet registry contracts will now allow price-tiering for names.
Wet Machine - September 1, 2006
Kohl Receives Petitions for Net NeutralityActivists in Madison are calling for Democratic Senator Herb Kohl to commit to protecting the Internet.
WEAU-TV Wisconsin - September 1, 2006
Net Bill OpposedAbout 30 people who think the Internet needs to be "saved" gathered with signs outside U.S. Sen. Patty Murray's office in downtown Spokane on Thursday, asking her to vote against a pending telecommunications bill.
Spokane Review - September 1, 2006
Net Neutrality Wins More SenatorsThe Net Neutrality movement is gaining support among senators. At the close of the August recess, the SaveTheInternet.com coalition added four previously uncommitted legislators to the cause.
Web Pro News - September 1, 2006
SavetheInternet.com Coalition Brings 12,000 Petitions to Senator Herb KohlMembers of the SavetheInternet.com Coalition brought petitions signed by over 12,000 Wisconsin residents to Sen. Herb Kohl's office. They are calling on him to prevent big phone and cable companies from setting up tolls on the Internet.
Wisconsin Public Radio - September 1, 2006
Me and Olympia SnoweA Republican blogger signs up for Net Neutrality and goes to a rally in Buffalo to show her support.
WNY Media Net - September 1, 2006
Net Neutrality Fans Rally in 25 CitiesWith Congress still dispersed for its August recess, advocates of Net neutrality laws this week took to knocking on office doors of U.S. senators in 25 cities across the nation.
CNet - September 1, 2006
Sen. Susan Collins Is Handed SavetheInternet Petitions in PortlandA gathering of consumer organizations, bloggers, and other Internet nusers delivered nearly 5,000 petitions to the Portland, Maine, office of Sen. Susan Collins.
Portland Public Radio - August 31, 2006
New York Senator Charles Schumer Receives Petitions to Save the InternetSen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) received 50,000 petitions from SavetheInternet.org members. The Senator recently came out in support of Net Neutrality legislation.
SavetheInternet.com (Video) - August 31, 2006
Vermont Coalition Urges Sen. James Jeffords to Support Net NeutralityBurlington WCAX covers the Montpelier rally in support of Net Neutrality after Sen. James Jeffords announces his support for Internet freedom and Net Neutrality legislation.
WCAX-TV, Burlington (Video) - August 31, 2006
A Call on Kohl to Defend Net NeutralityBusiness people delivered petitions to Sen. Herb Kohl's Madison office, asking for his vote to protect Net Neutrality.
Wisconsin Radio Network - August 31, 2006
Jeffords, Urged to Support Net Neutrality, Says He DoesGroups trying to preserve equal access to the Internet for all converged on Sen. James Jeffords' (I-Ver.) office to urge him to support the principle of Net Neutrality.
WCAX-TV - August 31, 2006
Kohl May Be Key to Net NeutralitySen. Herb Kohl (D-Wis.) takes issues seriously. What persuades his decisions, more often than not, is a desire to do what's best for Wisconsin. And what's best for Wisconsin is an Internet that serves all the people with equal quality and access.
Capital Times - August 31, 2006
Outpouring of Support for Net Neutrality Sweeps the CountryLocal SavetheInternet.com coalition members deliver thousands of petitions to Senate offices in 25 cities.
Free Press - August 31, 2006
Rep. Edward J. Markey to Talk About Internet and Communications PolicyEdward J. Markey (D-MA), the highest ranking Democrat on the House Telecommunications and Internet Subcommittee, is scheduled to share his thoughts on Internet and Communications Policy and Network Neutrality at a conference in October.
Pulver Media - August 31, 2006
Alaska's Stevens Put a Hold on Pork-Barrel Transparency BillSen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) is the senator who secretly held up action on a bill to create a searchable online catalog of federal grants and contracts aimed at helping the general public find out who receives government support.
Los Angeles Times - August 31, 2006
Net Neutrality Petitions to Be Delivered to Wisconsin Senator Herb KohlOrdinary citizens concerned about Net Neutrality will deliver petitions to Wisconsin Sen. Herb Kohl's office today.
Dane 101 - August 31, 2006
Concerns about Legislation that May Change Web AccessA group of people met outside of the Federal Building in Des Moines to thank Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) for his support of Net Neutrality.
WHO -TV Des Moines - August 31, 2006
National Outpouring of Support for Net NeutralitySupporters of Internet freedom took to the pavement in cities nationwide, delivering SavetheInternet petitions to their senators and urging them to oppose the phone and cable company attempt to gut Net Neutrality.
SavetheInternet.com - August 31, 2006
Aplus.Net Endorses Net NeutralityInternet solutions provider Aplus.Net announced its support of Net Neutrality provisions to current telecom legislation.
Aplus.Net - August 31, 2006
Protestors Want Stronger Internet RegulationProtesters in Denver asked their Senator for help to prevent Internet service providers from deciding which Web sites load faster than others.
CBS 4 Denver - August 31, 2006
BizBuzz: Internet protestMoveOn.org and the Christian Coalition aren't often on the same side, but they're part of an alliance that delivered nearly 17,000 petition signatures at Sen. Ken Salazar's Denver office.
Denver Post - August 30, 2006
Nothing Neutral About the Net, Group SaysMembers of SaveTheInternet.com Coalition presented a petition with more than 16,000 Colorado signatures to Sen. Ken Salazar's office, urging the senator to defend Net Neutrality.
Rocky Mountain News - August 30, 2006
Comcast Provides Preview of Net Non-NeutralityA recent report from a Comcast cable modem customer might be providing a sneak preview of what one of the biggest players has in store for us all.
Info World - August 30, 2006
Verizon Drops Fee After FCC QuestionVerizon said it had dropped a surcharge for high-speed Internet service after regulators questioned whether the telephone carrier was following truthful billing practices.
Associated Press - August 30, 2006
Group Lobbies Salazar to Back Net NeutralityA group of small businesses and nonprofits in Colorado presented petitions with 16,749 signatures to Sen. Ken Salazar urging the Colorado Democrat to support legislation that would require Net Neutrality.
Denver Post - August 30, 2006
Net Activists Focus on JeffordsAn array of citizen activists in Vermont will deliver more than 3,000 signatures to the office of Sen. Jim Jeffords urging him to support Net Neutrality.
Vermont Guardian - August 30, 2006
Net Neutrality Needs Your SupportAll Americans need to urge our members of Congress to support Net Neutrality. Any one who cares about preserving Internet freedom should fight for it today.
Nashua Telegraph - August 29, 2006
Lobbyists Warm Up for Renewed Video-Franchise BattleThe telco-based Consumers for Cable Choice group has begun its lobbying campaign in preparation for the reconvening of Congress, with a renewed call for federal legislation that will streamline video franchising.
Telecom Web - August 29, 2006
Verizon's Broadband Billing BrouhahaVerizon is now under fire from consumer groups and scrutiny by the FCC for certain fees included on Internet customer bills.
Sci-Tech Today - August 29, 2006
Net Neutrality Debate Has Underlying CauseWe have no national policy to promote broadband growth. In fact, we are the only industrialized country without one. Why? Perhaps it's because the telecom giants like AT&T like things just the way they are, with almost no competition.
Providence Journal - August 29, 2006
The New Network Neutrality: Criteria for Internet FreedomA new paper, "The New Network Neutrality: Criteria for Internet Freedom," will go well beyond current conceptualizations of Network Neutrality.
SaschaMeinrath.com - August 28, 2006
Note to Telcos: Please Get Better ShillsAs the battle for Net Neutrality goes on and on, the most annoying thing to many of us has been the dishonest arguments being used in the debate.
Tech Dirt - August 28, 2006
Media Groups Hold Rally for Net NeutralityThe SaveTheInternet.com Coalition, with the assistance of WNYMedia.net, will be holding a rally for Net Neutrality and thank Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) for his support on August 30.
Red's Basement - August 28, 2006
Cable TV Fires Back with AdsThe Wisconsin Cable Communications Association is unveiling a Web site and television commercial that responds to the TV4Us advertisements that claim cable television companies oppose competition during a period of rising cable rates.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - August 25, 2006
FCC Questions DSL Customer FeesFederal regulators have prepared formal inquiries asking Verizon and BellSouth for more information about their decision to keep money high-speed Internet customers would have otherwise gotten back after a subsidy fee was discontinued.
Wall Street Journal - August 25, 2006
FCC Questions Verizon, BellSouth Internet FeeVerizon and BellSouth will be asked by the FCC to explain a new fee on high-speed Internet customers that replaces a government surcharge that ended this month.
Reuters - August 25, 2006
Net Neutrality: At Stake, the Future of Content on the InternetStrong advocates of Net Neutrality call it the most important public policy you've probably never heard of and argue that without it, a handful of network owners will decide what the consumer gets to see and at what cost.
Foley & Lardner - August 25, 2006
Join Us to Preserve Net NeutralityWNY Media Network will team up with Moveon.org and several other groups and businesses to deliver petitions to Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) to protect Net Neutrality.
WNY Media Network - August 25, 2006
Still More in Net Neutrality WarsThe new head of the Federal Trade Commission, Bush-appointee Deborah Platt Majoras, is sounding remarkably like the telecom and the cable companies when she talks about Net Neutrality.
MicroEnterprise Journal - August 24, 2006
Back to School for CongressFrom funding to Internet safety and telecom reform, educational technology will be a key area of focus as Congress returns to work in September.
eSchool News - August 24, 2006
Verizon’s So-Called Deal -- Take 2A year ago Verizon offered its broadband "deal" which simply cut service in half for roughly half the price. Now, a year later, the telco is once again misleading its customers.
SaschaMeinrath.com - August 24, 2006
FTC Task Force to Tackle Net NeutralityThe head of the Federal Trade Commission urged caution in weighing Net Neutrality provisions despite the fact that the broadband market is an anti-competitive duopoly.
Information Week - August 24, 2006
Ex-Stevens Aide Reports Cable MoneyA former aide to Senate Commerce Committee chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) earned $270,000 from the cable industry in the first half of 2006, largely to influence a major telecom bill drafted by Stevens.
Multichannel News - August 24, 2006
The Federal Trade Commission Gets in on Network NeutralityFTC Chairwoman Deborah Platt Majoras announced that the FTC will look at Net Neutrality. In the same paragraph, however, she also expressed her doubts on the need for Net Neutrality legislation.
Wet Machine - August 24, 2006
Davey D Talks About Net NeutralityIn this current episode of the haves versus the have-nots, AT&T, Verizon and Comcast are working with sellouts in Congress to jack up the price of Internet service, which will ultimately result in fewer people using it.
San Francisco Bay View - August 23, 2006
Federal Trade Commission Examines Net NeutralityThe Federal Trade Commission) has formed an "Internet Access Task Force" to examine the Net Neutrality issue. Public Knowledge, a consumer advocacy group, welcomed the analysis, saying "there are no market forces at work" between broadband providers.
IDG News - August 23, 2006
The Internet of TomorrowA Net Neutrality supporter created a new YouTube PSA that paints a grim future of the Internet if telecom and cable companies get their way.
YouTube - August 23, 2006
FTC Weighs in on Net NeutralityFederal Trade Commission Chairwoman Deborah Platt Majoras toed the incumbent party line on Net Neutrality, urging caution in enacting "blanket prohibitions" on business conduct and models.
Broadband Reports - August 23, 2006
Net Netrality Gets New Angle from Google ExecutiveThe large telecom firms apparently want you, the consumer, to pay -- again -- for the networks that are already built, but are being upgraded and for access to a "data pipe" that you, as a consumer, are already paying for.
Blogging Stocks - August 23, 2006
More Astroturfing on Net Neutrality IssueThe latest exercise in astroturfing comes courtesy of the American Consumer Institute. While it describes itself as an "independent public policy organization," its list of experts includes people with strong ties to the telecom industry.
ARS Technica - August 23, 2006
Don't Rig the InternetThe FCC decided to loosen rules regarding the Internet in response to mounting pressure from phone and cable companies. Not surprisingly, media giants are lined up and waiting to take advantage of the FCC's decision.
Orlando Sentinel - August 23, 2006
Bush FTC Weighs in Against Congressional Net Neutrality SafeguardsThe Bush Administration has come to the aid of GOP Hill leaders who are desperately working to derail Net Neutrality legislation. Federal Trade Commission Chairwoman Deborah Platt Majoras has just announced plans for her agency to explore the Net Neutrali
Digital Destiny - August 23, 2006
Google Defends Net Neutrality RegulationsIn a recent debate, Google's general council, David Drummond, said that entrepreneurs creating new start-ups could be thwarted unless Congress enacts laws imposing Net Neutrality.
CNet - August 23, 2006
Former FCC Chief of Staff Reflects on ’96 Telecom ActBlair Levin served as chief of staff to then-FCC Chairman Reed Hundt from December 1993 through October 1997. In a recent interview, he reflected on the 1996 Telecom Act and mused on future revisions.
XChange Magazine - August 23, 2006
Execs Discuss Net Access, Privacy IssuesQwest and other telecoms resist calls to ban deals giving certain Web sites better speeds and access to customers, foreshadowing consumer woes without Net Neutrality.
Denver Post - August 22, 2006
Net Neutrality Platitudes from the Federal Trade CommissionOn the same day that FTC Chairwoman Deborah Platt Majoras said there is no evidence to show the broadband market is failing, Verizon and BellSouth each announced they were going to add surcharges for their broadband service.
TPM Cafe - August 22, 2006
New Mexicans Urge Senator to Save the InternetA diverse group of New Mexicans delivered 7,500 signed petitions to the Santa Fe and Albuquerque offices of Sen. Jeff Bingaman -- urging the senator to defend Internet freedom at a time when it is at risk for local small businesses.
SavetheInternet.com - August 22, 2006
Net Neutrality Debate Grows More VocalThe debate over Net Neutrality is heating up online. A senior executive at Comcast is challenging the CEO of eBay, Meg Whitman, to a debate on the topic.
E-Commerce News - August 22, 2006
Deutsche Telekom Forced to Share Its Fiber NetworkThe European Commission agreed with the German telecom regulator's ruling that Deutsche Telekom must share its fiber network with competitors because the company has a dominant position in the market.
Light Reading - August 21, 2006
DSL Discount, Not So FastFor Verizon's Internet customers, monthly bills won't be dropping after all. The telco announced that it will drop the universal service surcharge but will impose a new "supplier surcharge" and pocket the money.
Wall Street Journal - August 21, 2006
FTC Chairman Addresses Issue of Net NeutralityFederal Trade Commission Chairwoman Deborah Platt Majoras announced that she has formed an Internet Access Task Force to examine several issues, including Net Neutrality.
Federal Trade Commission - August 21, 2006
Hey Bingaman, Save the InternetNew Mexicans for Internet freedom let Sen. Jeff Bingaman know they want him to support Net Neutrality.
KOAT-7, Albuquerque (Video) - August 19, 2006
Jeff Bingaman Asked to Back Net Neutrality in CongressAbout two dozen Internet business people and enthusiasts have submitted a petition with 7,500 signatures to Sen. Jeff Bingaman's (D-N.M.) office urging him to support Net Neutrality provisions in a pending telecom bill.
Albuquerque Journal - August 19, 2006
Net Neutrality Opposed by National Conference of State LegislaturesThe National Conference of State Legislatures narrowly passed a resolution reported by its committee of Communications and Information Technology opposing Net Neutrality.
Daily Kos - August 17, 2006
We Need Strong Net NeutralityThe Senate is likely to address a telecom bill that jeopardizes the Internet's tradition of openness when they reconvene in September. It's time to contact your senators and tell them to support Net Neutrality.
Iowa City Press-Citizen - August 17, 2006
Congress Poised to Unravel the InternetIn both the House and Senate versions of the telecom bill, Americans are described as "consumers" and "subscribers," not citizens deserving substantial rights when it comes to the creation and distribution of digital media.
The Nation - August 17, 2006
Muni Wi-Fi Could Be the New Hope for Net NeutralityMunicipal Wi-Fi networks could help beat the telcos and politicians in the battle over Net Neutrality, according to Stanford University law professor Larry Lessig.
The Register - August 17, 2006
Net Neutrality Fosters Competition Between TechnologiesIn the tangled web of Internet services, competition in the free market is best served by government regulations mandating Net Neutrality.
Redding Business News - August 16, 2006
Net Neutrality: Why You Should Contact Your SenatorsSince the invention of the internet, every content provider has been treated equally. No publisher, game or website receives any preference when it comes to the speed of their site. But that will all change if Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) has his way.
Associated Content - August 16, 2006
U.S. Appeals Court Backs FCC on Fiber Line SharingAfter the U.S. appeals court decided that regional phone companies do not have to share new fiber-optic lines with competitors, Earthlink said they will revisit the issue if "consumers are being harmed by a lack of competition."
Reuters - August 16, 2006
Judges Back FCC Rules on Network SharingA panel of federal judges dealt a blow to EarthLink, upholding federal rules that exempt regional telephone companies from sharing portions of their broadband networks with competitors.
CNet - August 16, 2006
Telecom, Cable Interests Channel Donations to Republican IncumbentsOfficials of dominant telephone and cable TV companies vying for an upper hand in pending telecom legislation are contributing heavily this election season to Republican incumbents who share those firms' deregulatory outlook.
National Journal - August 16, 2006
Appeals Court Rules for FCC in Challenge over UnbundlingA federal appeals court has ruled in favor of the FCC in a case challenging the agency's decision to allow big telephone companies to keep some high-speed lines from being accessible to rivals on an unbundled basis.
Market Watch - August 16, 2006
Akaka Sees No Benefit in Debating CaseSen. Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii) said in a recent public appearance that he would support Net Neutrality legislation.
Haleakala Times - August 16, 2006
Comcast Cohen-cidence? I Think NotComcast vice president and "uber-lobbyist" David Cohen wrote a saber-rattling editorial against Net Neutrality. The piece provided nothing new to the debate, amounting to a regurgitation of telco/cable hyperbolic talking points.
Web Pro News - August 16, 2006
Ed Whitacre Is Seriously FormidableLampooning AT&T Chairman Ed Whitacre doesn't get to the seriousness of this man's ability to swallow companies and re-build AT&T's statistics and market share facts on the extent of its existing and potential telecom control.
Telecom Web - August 15, 2006
Reform Our MediaWhen a small number of big corporations control too much of our sources of news, information and culture, the public interest is threatened. Yet big media companies are lobbying Congress and the FCC to give them more control.
Florida PIRG - August 15, 2006
Censorship in a NutshellThe Internet has put the fourth estate into the hands of the electorate. The gatekeepers and tastemakers are being pushed aside by an immense egalitarian wave of information and opinion.
News Blaze - August 15, 2006
Net Neutrality Fight Takes to Airwaves, WebThe fight over new telecom legislation is moving to television sets and the Web as the cable industry and public interest groups unveil new messages to win Senate votes over the August congressional break.
TV Week - August 14, 2006
Geeks Lobby for Net NeutralityPeter Pan, Tron Guy, the dancing baby and other Web celebrities have banded together in support of Net Neutrality.
Winston-Salem Journal - August 14, 2006
What Google Told the SEC and Investors About Threat to NetGoogle told the SEC and their investors that the search giant's business depends on "continued and unimpeded access to the Internet," and that Internet access providers may be able to block, degrade, or charge for that access.
Digital Destiny - August 12, 2006
Hands Off the Internet: Better Check Your Facts, Part.1This front-group for the Internet monopoly wannabes has a "back to school" lesson just posted about Quality of Service. But they are misinforming the public.
Digital Destiny - August 12, 2006
What Comcast Lobbyist Cohen Did Not Say About Net NeutralityDavid Cohen, Comcast's chief political lobbyist, helps the company quash potential competition. Now he's attempting to undermine the biggest threat to the nation's # 1 cable monopoly: an open Internet.
Digital Destiny - August 11, 2006
Tips on Growing AstroturfThe results of the telco strategy of imitating grassroots behavior by growing Astroturf groups are not guaranteed. Real grassroots groups are very good at uncovering corporate connections to your Astroturf -- and they will not hesitate to expose you.
SavetheInternet.com - August 11, 2006
Google Touts Net Neutrality to InvestorsGoogle has already pushed for Net Neutrality laws in Washington. Now the search giant is taking its case to stockholders.
Online Media Daily - August 11, 2006
The Battle for Network NeutralityCompanies that own most of the Internet "backbone" -- telcos like Verizon, Bell-South and San Antonio's AT&T -- are eager to charge Web site owners premium fees for preferential delivery speeds across their networks.
KERA Unlimited - August 11, 2006
More Astroturf Groups Exposed as TV Ad Wars Heat UpHands Off the Internet is one of five "Astroturf" lobbying and other front groups exposed in a new Common Cause report that profiles these groups that try to appear as true grassroots, but are really about corporate money, not citizen power.
Common Dreams - August 11, 2006
Regulations for Net Still Not Warranted Despite Latest OutcryThe executive vice president of Comcast weighs in on Net Neutrality debate -- trotting out a familiar list of dubious talking points and ommitting any mention the industry's $100 million campaign to get rid of Net Neutrality.
Mercury News - August 10, 2006
Government Must Get in the Ring for Net Neutrality FightThe net neutrality fight is still in the early rounds but, consumers need legislation in their corner to win.
PC World Canada - August 10, 2006
WiMax, Net Neutrality And Basic Fact CheckingWith Sprint's annoucement that it was going to offer WiMax, it was only a matter of time until someone tied the topic to Net Neutrality. The <i>Wall Street Journal</i> gets its basic facts wrong, destroying the core of its argument.
Tech Dirt - August 9, 2006
Schmidt: Google Closer to the Perfect AnswerIn a keynote at the Search Engine Strategies show, Google CEO Eric Schmidt said that the most critical concern for Google is the net neutrality debate.
Internet News - August 9, 2006
A Decade Later, Net Issues Remain the SameA free, open and fiercely protected public Internet decentralizes big media. As the 'Net is reinvented for multimedia, it is vitally important that the little guy is not squeezed out of the picture.
TV Technology - August 9, 2006
Net Neutrality Pits Google, eBay, and Amazon, Against TelcosAs telephone and digital companies continue to grow through mergers and acquisitions, Net Neutrality, has become a contested area of law.
Website Host Directory - August 9, 2006
Kill Bill: Stevens' Commerce Committee Posts Telecom BillThe telecom bill is an example of the telecom lobbyist-written communications policies that undermine the development of a U.S. democratic media system in the digital era.
Digital Destiny - August 8, 2006
Net Neutrality, Before the NetThe question of who controls the network has more serious consequences and higher stakes today than ever -- for free speech, for consumers, for information providers -- but it's still considered a "wonk" issue.
Public Knowledge - August 8, 2006
Key Industry Players in Telecom ActA list of thumbnail sketches of nearly three-dozen associations, coalitions and companies who are expected to be players in the forthcoming revision of the Telecom Act.
National Journal - August 8, 2006
The Internet: A Series of SpoofsA right-leaning marketing executive's techno re-mix spoof on Sen. Ted Stevens' now famous "Series of Tubes" Internet speech became an effective tool in support of Net Neutrality.
Wall Street Journal - August 8, 2006
Comcast, eBay Execs Air Net Neutrality SpatTop executives of Comcast and eBay have become embroiled in a public email sparring match over Net Neutrality.
Telcom Web - August 7, 2006
Hands On the InternetMembers of Congress have said a thousand times in public that they have no desire to regulate the Internet. Yet, for each time they say it, they then go ahead and do it.
TomPaine.com - August 7, 2006
Where's My Open Access?The reason we are getting bad policy from Congress is not because Senators and Representatives are stupid or old, but because they are pushing legislation on behalf of the phone companies.
Civil Defense Blog - August 7, 2006
Freedom of the Internet Is in JeopardyIf you don't tell your legislators how you feel, this issue could be decided based on the efforts of high-paid lobbyists backed with dollars from parties whose interest is in their own profits, not in maintaining a free and competitive global network.
Enterprise Open Source Magazine - August 7, 2006
Weighing High-Tech Bills in AnalogCongress will tackle major telecom reform in September. But Congress isn't exactly a haven for the tech-savvy.
Los Angeles Times - August 7, 2006
Prohibit 'Tollbooths' on Cyber-HighwayCan we afford to make the information freeway a toll road, where corporations able to pay high fees would put their Web sites in the express lane, leaving innovators, scholars and activists stuck in a traffic jam?
Rochester Democrat & Chronicle - August 6, 2006
Keep Net NeutralityHeavily funded efforts to get Congress to allow a two-tiered Internet would undo much of the Web's greatness. They should be blocked, and Net Neutrality should be preserved.
Providence Journal - August 6, 2006
Bill Threatens Internet, Consumer FreedomUnless we pay attention to the Net Neutrality issue, we could wind up scratching our heads wondering why certain Web sites load more slowly than others or why Internet companies are suddenly charging more for their services.
Kansas City Star - August 5, 2006
Cerf Sets Record StraightVinton Cerf, chief Internet evangelist for Google, has written Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens saying he definitely does not believe that Net Neutrality legislation is "unnecessary this year."
Broadcasting & Cable - August 4, 2006
eBay Mines Members for Net Neutrality SupporteBay CEO Meg Whitman sent a second email to members asking for their support in the debate over Net Neutrality.
Auction Bytes - August 4, 2006
Selling His Fellow SenatorsDesperate to get his massive and controversial telecom bill through Congress this year, Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) has gone, well, postal: a glossy direct-mail-style brochure trumpeting the legislation.
Forbes - August 3, 2006
Battle for Net Neutrality ContinuesDigital marketing agency space150 announced the formation of wearetheweb.org, an online action organization formed to promote Net Neutrality.
URL Wire - August 3, 2006
AT&T’s Whitacre Sticks to the ScriptAT&T's huge profits aren't good enough for CEO Ed Whitaker. He want us to pay more to ride his gravy train and will say whatever it takes to get Washington to award them with control of the Web.
SavetheInternet.com - August 3, 2006
Tangled TubesThe editors of <i>The New Republic</i> respond to a letter from Mike McCurry on Net Neutrality
The New Republic - August 3, 2006
Stevens Scrambling for Anti-Net Neutrality VotesSen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) remains determined to try to get his 60 votes for the telecom bill despite the resistance of several Republican senators, so we still have to keep up the pressure.
Daily Kos - August 3, 2006
Hey Did You Hear What Ed Whitacre Just Said?AT&T CEO Ed Whitacre again reiterated his intent to turn the Internet into a toll road: "Some companies want us to be a big dumb pipe that gets bigger and bigger. No one gets a free ride."
ZDNet - August 3, 2006
Net Neutrality: Lessons from the PastNothing resembling today’s Internet economy could have arisen under the Western Union regime in the 19th century or the old AT&T monopoly in the 20th century. And that’s the main reason Net Neutrality should be preserved.
MIT Technology Review - August 3, 2006
Net Neutrality May Derail Telecom BillThe attempts by Senate Commerce Committee chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) to push his telecom bill may be stalling out, due to upcoming elections and continued debate from all fronts on the issue of Net Neutrality.
Consumer Affairs - August 2, 2006
Senators Locked In Tight Races Worried About Net NeutralityThe effort by Senate Commerce Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) to move telecom legislation to the floor in September is opposed by Sen. Rick Santorum (R-Pa.) and other senators facing close races in November.
National Journal - August 2, 2006
Demand Net Neutrality!The telcos are often outmaneuvered by smaller, more nimble start-ups that create new services. Then it becomes attractive for the telcos to slow down the rate at which those services are delivered, so the telcos' offerings look more inviting.
PC Magazine - August 2, 2006
New Website Supports Internet FreedomA new site called WeAretheWeb.org shows a group of Internet celebrities (like the Tron Guy) talking about the importance of supporting Net Neutrality.
Wearetheweb.org - August 2, 2006
Art and Marketing All Mashed UpThe most-talked-about events of the day are quickly finding their way to the Internet and then "mashed up." by people who use the films as a form of commentary or entertainment. The Sen.Ted Stevens mashup was viewed more than 150,000 times.
Washington Post - August 2, 2006
Stevens Makes Big Telecom Bill PushWith several Senate Republicans eager to avoid controversial votes as they struggle to hang on to their seats in a difficult election climate, many are resisting Sen. Ted Stevens' drive to push the telcom bill to a vote before the November elections.
Roll Call - August 2, 2006
Researcher to Offer Net Neutrality TestA Seattle-based security researcher has devised a way to test for Net Neutrality. The software can tell if computers are treating some types of traffic better than others.
IDG News - August 2, 2006
AT&T's Whitacre: 'Nobody Gets a Free Ride'AT&T CEO Ed Whitacre spoke to state utilities regulators in San Francisco on a variety of subjects, but the one topic he seemed to want to block out was the issue of Net Neutrality.
Light Reading - August 2, 2006
Crimping the FlowInternet carriers want to charge content providers for network use in hopes of bettering online service, but others fear pricing the Internet could slow or block the stream of information.
Rocky Mountain News - July 31, 2006
Jim Webb Comes Out Strongly in Support of Net Neutrality"The internet represents democracy in action and must be protected ... the internet provides an open and free marketplace of ideas and speech, as our founding fathers intended in the first amendment to our Constitution," said Jim Webb.
TPM Cafe - July 31, 2006
A War for the WebThe battle about whether Congress should ensure the "neutrality" of the Internet -- meaning that every user will have equal access to Net resources -- is also being fought by much smaller companies, including two in Connecticut.
Hartford Courant - July 31, 2006
TheirSpaceThe telcos want to create a tiered system that would leave them free to price the market well out of reach for your favorite website, be it porn or politics, forcing that site off the super-Tollway and into the equivalent of I-5 at rush hour.
Willamette Week Online - July 31, 2006
Comcast Reaps as Price War Fails to MaterializeComcast, the largest cable operator in the US, offered further evidence that strong competition among cable and telecom providers of high-speed internet connections is not yet pushing prices down.
Financial Times - July 28, 2006
Alaska Needs Web Without GatekeepersWithout a free and open Internet, we will lose the passionate debate and discussion central to American democracy. Sen. Stevens' bill could limit citizens' ability to access Web sites that offer controversial or minority views.
Anchorage Daily News - July 28, 2006
Senator Open to TV Chat About InternetMocked by comedian and host of "The Daily Show" Jon Stewart for calling the Internet a bunch of tubes, Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens said he is open to appearing on the popular cable television program.
Reuters - July 28, 2006
Stevens 'Very Close' to Votes Needed for Senate Telecom BillSenate Commerce Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) expressed confidence that he would reach the 60-vote threshold of support necessary to stave off delaying tactics and move his sweeping telecom overhaul measure to the Senate floor.
National Journal - July 28, 2006
Milking the InternetThe pols are taking Net Neutrality to the bank: The fight over the Internet and what fees should be assessed for access is a surefire moneymaker -- for their campaign coffers.
Forbes - July 28, 2006
Telcos Try Viral LobbyingThe crux of the problem is that while the telcos aspire to become new-media tycoons, they're still thinking like old-fashioned monopolists. That's not very creative.
Digital Trends - July 28, 2006
Government Not Doing Enough for Net NeutralityMicrosoft said that "more could be done" by the U.S. legislature to ensure Net Neutrality principles. The response comes after petitioning federal regulators for permission to ignore shareholder demands to explain its position on the issue.
Web Pro News - July 28, 2006
Stevens' 'A Series of Tubes' Has Life of Its OwnSen. Ted Stevens' remark about the Internet being "a series of tubes" has taken on a life of its own.
Pacific IT - July 27, 2006
A Fight to the Death for Net NeutralityNet Neutrality is a fight to the death for the Telcos. Either they control what information we can have access to, rationed by price, or they collapse as an industry.
A Networked World - July 27, 2006
Don’t Buy or Invest in the Anti-open Internet Gang of FourWant to strike a long-lasting blow for Internet freedom? One approach is to no longer buy any products -- including phone and Internet service and shares for investment -- from the key companies opposed to Net Neutrality.
Digital Destiny - July 26, 2006
Bad Karma for AT&T and VerizonThe telcos are spending something along the lines of $100 million in lobbying and advertising to get national video franchising and control over the internet. This is not about Google vs. Verizon but a public outcry on behalf of Net Neutrality against cor
MyDD - July 26, 2006
Anti-Astroturf CampaignQ: Why should the voice of a paid shill be given equivalent weight to the voice of a genuinely concerned citizen? A: It shouldn't.
Isen Blog - July 26, 2006
Net Neutrality: Not DeadSince the Senate Commerce Committee voted against Net Neutrality, a group of organizations supporting a Net Neutrality law have cranked up a pressure campaign on the 11 Republican senators who voted against it.
Daily Wireless - July 26, 2006
Net Neutrality Fight Moves to StatesAs New York and California Attorneys General voice support for Net Neutrality, corporate think tanks like the Heartland Institute step up their pro-telco attacks on consumer and media reform groups.
Heartland Institute - July 26, 2006
Net Neutrality by the NumbersIf Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) thinks the Internet is a complex "series of tubes," he's now finding out how difficult it is to navigate legislation through the Senate.
TPM Cafe - July 26, 2006
Microsoft Opposes Effort to Hold Shareholder Vote on Net NeutralityMicrosoft wants to block an effort for a shareholder vote forcing the world's largest software maker to explain its support for Net Neutrality.
Reuters - July 26, 2006
Kerry Plays to All Sides in Telecom Bill DebateSen. John Kerry (D-Mass.) has aligned with interests of all sides of the communications industry as Congress rewrites the telecom bill. But he is aligned with consumers on at least one aspect: He supports Net Neutrality.
National Journal - July 26, 2006
Keep Internet an Information FreewayThe fact that we need a law to protect the historically free Internet from those who want to annex it for private gain is indeed a paradox. But don't let the big telcos convince you that Net Neutrality amounts to "government regulation of the Internet."
Journal-Standard - July 26, 2006
Net Neutrality and YouIn a series of questions and answers, Aaron Delwiche explains why every American should fight against the phone and cable industry's plan to gut Net Neutrality and undermine innovation, free speech and the free market.
San Antonio Current - July 26, 2006
Senators Hear Grassroots Drumbeat on Net NeutralitySenator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) spoke before the Senate to “outline what is at stake” should Congress ignore public opinion and let phone and cable companies gut Net Neutrality.
SavetheInternet.com - July 25, 2006
Net Neutrality or Net censorship?Dick Armey's recent column on CNET News.com is long on criticism of the Christian Coalition but woefully short of facts about the Net Neutrality debate.
CNet - July 25, 2006
Net Neutrality: The Frenzied Search for the Perfect MetaphorNet Neutrality has been described by some as a confusing issue. Which is probably why so many people have been reaching (and over-reaching) for metaphors to describe exactly what it means.
Information Week - July 24, 2006
Net Neutrality Debate Stirs Strong EmotionsEmployees of a computer store in Iowa oppose the telecom bill, and they have been handing out fliers promoting Net Neutrality to their customers. They say the legislation could hurt the Internet more than most people might expect.
The Daily Iowan - July 24, 2006
Internet Speed Must Not Be Based on Ability to PayThe phone companies figure that the many millions spent on advertising, lobbying, campaign contributions and legal fees can generate many billions in revenue if Congress passes the telco-friendly legislation.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinal - July 24, 2006
Net Neutrality Advocates Put Pressure on LawmakersSince the Senate Commerce Committee voted against a Net Neutrality amendment to the telecom bill, a group of organizations supporting Net Neutrality have cranked up the pressure on the 11 Republican senators who voted against it.
Computer World - July 24, 2006
Sen. Ron Wyden Supports Net Neutrality on Senate FloorSen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) spoke on the Senate floor recently and pledged to block telecom bill without Net Neutrality regulations.
Library of Congress - July 24, 2006
Today's Cell Phone System Argues for Retaining Net NeutralityWhy aren't there a wealth of amazing and interactive services available for mobile devices? Because cell phone carriers control what services are allowed to use their networks. There is no Net Neutrality on the cell phone network.
News Forge - July 21, 2006
AT&T, Qwest Ask FCC For Broadband FreedomAT&T and Qwest are seeking government approval from the FCC to free a wide range of their broadband telecom activities from regulatory restrictions originally designed to control and restrict former Bell company practices.
Telecom Direct News - July 21, 2006
A New Anti-Net Neutrality Campaign Attempts to Go ViralScott Cleland, Chairman of NetCompetition.org, has produced another astroturf video called A Royal Fable.
Info World - July 21, 2006
WWJD About Net Neutrality?A fascinating aspect of the Net Neutrality debate is the lack of traditional polarization. It's not a tug-of-war between the politically opposed, but a soundproofed room behind marble walls.
Web Pro News - July 21, 2006
Too Bad This Didn't Happen Last WeekComcast's alleged censorship of a Nightline segment: How many "corporate oopsies" does it take before these incidents turn from paranoid speculation to an actual pattern of corporate abuse of Net Neutrality?
Wet Machine - July 21, 2006
Christian Coalition Ramps Up Effort on Behalf of Net Neutrality PlanThe Christian Coalition is ramping up efforts to generate Republican support for a Net Neutrality amendment sponsored by Sens. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine) and Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.).
National Journal - July 21, 2006
Dot Coms Take Net Neutrality BeatingThe history and philosophy of the Internet takes too long to digest in the fast-moving world of legislative politics. Our process does not allow for thorough understanding, and the telcos have taken great advantage of that fact for decades.
MIT Technology Review - July 21, 2006
Internet Businesses Promote Net NeutralityWith the Telecom Act under way, businesses and the public in general are fearful of the absence of Net Neutrality in the bill.
United Press International - July 21, 2006
Barton Sees Murky Future for Telco BillThe prospects of passing telecommunications legislation this year are "murky," Rep. Joe Barton, a Texas Republican who was a principal author of the House bill, said on Thursday.
Reuters - July 21, 2006
Save the InternetWhile the Republicans have controlled Congress, the determination of big business to increase profits at any cost has been relentless. Now corporations wants to erect toll booths in cyberspace, ending a free and open Internet.
Times-Record - July 20, 2006
Net Neutrality Must Stay to Keep Community Video in Fast Lane<i>Newsweek</i>'s Senior Editor & Chief Technology Writer Steven Levy believes Net Neutrality evens the playing field for grassroots and non-profit organizations and small companies to compete with the largest and most visible Internet giants.
Beet TV - July 20, 2006
AT&T, Comcast Rout Google, Microsoft in Net Neutrality BattleWhen it comes to getting their way in Washington, Internet-era darlings Google and Microsoft still have a lot to learn from the likes of AT&T and Comcast.
Bloomberg News - July 20, 2006
The Fight Is On to Keep the Internet NeutralThe loopy creativity from the outer fringes of the Web is coming front and center on an issue normally left to lawyers and lobbyists. Average Internet users are taking on Washington as Congress debates its first major telecom bill in a decade.
McClatchy Newspapers - July 20, 2006
Sen. Ted Stevens Is Tangled Up in TubesWatch your back, Nelly Furtado. An 82-year-old U.S. senator from Alaska is looking for a cut of your dance floor action this summer -- and his secret weapon is tubes, a series of tubes.
Boston Globe - July 20, 2006
Getting a Grip on Net NeutralityThe debate over Net Neutrality has been building for the past year. The two sides are far apart on the issue, but one thing is clear: If Net Neutrality is not guaranteed, businesses will be paying more for necessary services and bandwidth.
Computer World - July 20, 2006
Senate Panel Rallying Industry in Support of Telecom MeasureThe leadership of the Senate Commerce Committee is quietly rallying industry troops to lobby hard for passage of massive telecom legislation which needs 60 votes to thwart a filibuster.
National Journal - July 20, 2006
Jon Stewart Continues Coverage of Net NeutralityThe Daily Show's Jon Stewart continues his coverage of Net Neutrality. John Hodgman reports that the Internet "is almost too fair. It's as though the richer companies get no advantage at all."
The Daily Show - July 19, 2006
Comcast: A Gatekeeper with a Heavy Hand?Comcast reportedly cut a critical segment from an ABC Nightline broadcast from its Internet-on-demand video service, which raises significant doubts about the company's claims that they would never block or degrade content on the Internet.
SavetheInternet.com - July 19, 2006
Net Neutrality Debate Highlights Need for Thoughtful ActionIt would serve us well to encourage our representatives to do their homework, making sure that whatever they decide serves the interest of their constituents, and not the greedy broadband providers.
ARS Technica - July 19, 2006
Congress Must Act Now to Protect Internet Freedom and InnovationNet Neutrality serves as the Internet's nondiscrimination policy and is similar to policies that ensure large phone companies like Verizon and BellSouth treat calls from Sprint or T-Mobile with the same speed and accuracy that they would for their own.
The Hill - July 19, 2006
Broadcasters Want Senators to Follow House Telecom LeadNational Association of Broadcasters say they stand to lose if the telecom legislation that cleared the Senate Commerce Committee late last month becomes law, and is advocating for a "slimmed-down" version of the bill.
National Journal - July 18, 2006
Net Neutrality Advocates Face OffThe most startling fact about the debate over Net Neutrality between Internet pioneers Vinton Cerf and David Farber was how close the two sides were in their positions. The difference lies in how to best real those goals.
PC Magazine - July 18, 2006
AT&T as Ma CensorAT&T is now seeking to inflame conservative family groups, as well as parents in general, by claiming that Net Neutrality will usher in a torrent of what it deems to be inappropriate content.
Digital Destiny - July 18, 2006
Christian Coalition Takes Hit from Dick Armey for Defending Net NeutralityDick Armey, former congressman and current chairman of the conservative group, FreedomWorks, attacked the Christian Coalition for siding "with the forces of big government and against good sense and the rest of the conservative movement."
CNet - July 18, 2006
Nevada Sen. Ensign Becomes GOP Tech StarSen. John Ensign (R-Nev.), with more than $517,230 in campaign contributions from the communications/electronics sector, has been a major influence on the teleco-friendly telecom bill.
Scripps News - July 18, 2006
Congress Colludes Against Net NeutralityIt was bound to happen eventually - Washington is finally teaming up with corporations to control the Internet.
Independent Florida Alligator - July 18, 2006
Seattle Times Hears About Net NeutralityThree recent letters to the editor of the <i>Seattle Times</i> underscores the popular support for Net Neutrality legislation.
Seattle Times - July 18, 2006
Net Neutrality Backers Fear Net CensorshipIf the owners of the Internet backbone -– phone and cable companies –- get their way, consumer and public media advocates say nothing could stop them from blocking access to Web sites they don't like or agree with.
Fort Wayne Gazette Journal - July 17, 2006
The Great Debate: Net NeutralityTwo Internet pioneers squared off in a debate about Net Neutrality at the Center for American Progress.
Center for American Progress - July 17, 2006
Tangled Up in TubesThe chairman of the Senate commerce committee, Ted Stevens, had the blogosphere chuckling when he explained his opposition to the fiercely debated Net Neutrality amendment.
Washington Post - July 17, 2006
Congress Debates Free and Open Internet"The Internet is already a free market. It is already doing its thing for consumers. What they are talking about is changing the free market into a market that has a gatekeeper. And the gatekeeper will be the network owner," says Ben Scott of Free Press.
Voice of America - July 17, 2006
Senate Telecom Overseer Not Plugged In to WebSen. Ted Stevens picked a bad time to go tubular. The Alaska Republican is being hammered by bloggers for describing the Internet as a "series of tubes" in a rambling speech last month in which he defended a telecom bill that will influence the Internet.
Los Angeles Times - July 17, 2006
Senator Stevens' Bill to NowhereStevens' bill is the Senator's wink to AT&T, Verizon and Comcast. For the rest of us, it's his bill to nowhere. It needs to be overhauled, or stopped dead in its tracks.
SavetheInternet.com - July 17, 2006
Net Neutrality Is Hard to SellNet Neutrality concerns broad societal issues, and very few packets traverse the Net that didn't go on cables laid in public rights-of-way that, for the most part, carriers use for free.
ZDNet - July 17, 2006
Don't Touch that Television DialDo we need to update our federal telecommunications policy to respond to ever-changing technology and consumer demand? Absolutely. But not at the expense of consumer protections, municipal budgets, and the common good.
Beloit Daily News - July 17, 2006
Senator’s Slip of the Tongue Keeps on Truckin’ over the WebTwo weeks ago Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) explained why he voted against Net Neutrality. And while it is true that the Internet is not a big truck, the senator might feel as if he has been run over by one.
New York Times - July 17, 2006
Bloggers Heap Derision on StevensSenator Ted Stevens' reputation as an enlightened tech user goes down the tube.
Anchorage Daily News - July 15, 2006
We Must Retain Net NeutralityIn rural America, we may not be able to choose our Internet providers, but we demand to be able to choose our information.
Clarion-Ledger - July 15, 2006
Verizon’s Bankrupt Broadband VisionDon't be fooled by all the PR coming from both Bells and cable about what is supposed to be our innovative and creative media future. What they want to give us is a souped-up system delivering lots of TV-like entertainment and lots of ads.
Digital Destiny - July 14, 2006
Wyden Confronts Senate on Net NeutralitySenator Ron Wyden (D-OR) made an impassioned plea on the Senate floor for Net Neutrality protection, promising to use all means necessary to block Sen. Ted Stevens' telecom bill unless it expressly forbade Internet discrimination.
Web Pro News - July 14, 2006
Net Neutrality: Can the Internet Remain Neutral?The truth is that the telcos completely failed to invest in the "last mile," restricting their ability to compete with cable companies. Unless they wake up, they may find they've won the Net Neutrality battle but lost the war.
Information World Review - July 14, 2006
MySpace Kills Internet Tube SongMySpace, owned by Rupert Murdock, canceled the TedStevensFanClub account, a "credible complaint of your violation of the MySpace Terms of Services." Two days later, after publication of the story, the account was reinstated.
Wired News - July 14, 2006
Net Neutrality, Meet Jon StewartWhat does it take to for Net Neutrality to get national television coverage? Was this picked up on NBC, Fox, CNN or another major news network? Nope. Comedy Central.
Web Pro News - July 14, 2006
Web Ad Rivals Unite on Net Neutrality Plea to SenateGoogle, Yahoo, IAC/InterActiveCorp, Amazon and eBay, themselves rivals for online marketing dollars, sent a letter yesterday to every Senator, hoping to get Net Neutrality language added to the telecom bill before it comes before the full Senate.
ClickZ - July 14, 2006
Designers Should Prepare for Net Neutrality BattleLawmakers should require broadband carriers to transport all contents and services on the Internet with the same Service Level Agreements that they employ for the transmission of their own contents and services.
Wireless Design & Development - July 14, 2006
To FCC, Crowd-Cussing Is 21.67 Times as Bad as Net Neutrality ViolationsIn the FCC's bizarre world, nanoseconds of boobs-flash and cussing is 21.67 times more of a sin against the public good than subverting competing Internet services.
ZDNet - July 13, 2006
Net Neutrality: A Tale of Two InternetsEurope is not convinced that the two-tiered American model works, but that's hardly the end of the debate. Tremors from the U.S. battle for Net Neutrality are begining to be felt in Europe.
London Times - July 13, 2006
Jon Stewart Lampoons Sen. Stevens’ Net NonsenseSenate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens, in charge of legislating regulations for the Internet, displayed his ignorance of Net fundamentals in a recent speech.
YouTube - July 12, 2006
A Duopoly By Any Other Name...As we head into what could be the end-game for telecom legislation this year, a new report has some fascinating insights into just how narrow the broadband market really is.
Public Knowledge - July 12, 2006
Verizon's TubesYou think your own personal Internet is slow now? Wait until Verizon starts making Disney movies travel faster than e-mail over its, um, tubes.
San Francisco Bay Guardian - July 12, 2006
The Tangled Net Of 'Net NeutralityThis is a good synopsis of the Net Neutrality debate, starting with ATT&T's Ed Whitacre's statement, "For a Google or a Yahoo! or a Vonage or anybody to expect to use these pipes for free is nuts!"
National Journal - July 12, 2006
How Washington Will Shape the InternetThe most potent force shaping the future of the Internet is neither Google nor Microsoft. It's rather a small army of Gucci-shod lobbyists on Washington's K Street and the powerful legislators whose favor they curry.
MSNBC - July 12, 2006
Two Sides of Net NeutralityI pay for a connection to the Internet, period, I don't want to be filtered or influenced by my Internet service provider. If that happens, then the big sites – the ones with money – will be the only sites on the Net.
Tampa Bay Newspapers - July 12, 2006
Reality Check: Who's Behind TV Ads About Cable PricesA multi-million dollar television advertising campaign funded by the telcos is aiming to sway the public and lawmakers to change telecommunications policy.
WISC TV (Madison, Wis.) - July 11, 2006
Kay Hanley Wants ‘Internet’ to Connect with ListenersBoston-reared rocker Kay Hanley hopes "God Save the Internet" will get people feeling angry enough to ring up their senators.
Boston Herald - July 11, 2006
Legislation Bad Idea for Internet FreedomThe telecom bill without Net Neutrality would limit our resources as consumers and define what exactly could be put on the Internet based on money, which would widen the gap between huge sites like CNN.com and smaller ones like your favorite blog.
Michigan State News - July 11, 2006
Does Rupert Murdoch's DIRECTV Own Sen. Ted Stevens?The powerful lawmaker pushes for an anti-cable TV provision after being showered with oddly timed campaign contributions from Murdoch employees.
TV Predictions - July 10, 2006
Tell Lott to Back Net NeutralityCitizens are calling on their Senators to defend Internet freedom and support a Net Neutrality amendment to the telecom bill.
Clarion-Ledger - July 10, 2006
From 0 to 1 in 100 yearsWhy should we depend on companies that accelerate into the future with one foot on the brake pedal while they park in the middle of intersections and charge us to cross them? The short answer is, We shouldn't. That means we have to depend on ourselves.
Linux Journal - July 10, 2006
Who Will Pay for a Speedier Internet?The lawmakers are battling over Net Neutrality, but the real buzzword to remember is money — who has it, who needs it and how Congress can help steer it to help improve the Internet.
Cox News - July 9, 2006
Podcast: 'Interview' with Sen. Ted StevensA funny fake interview with Sen. Ted Stevens about Net Neutrality that actually gives some good information about the issue.
Podcast 411 - July 8, 2006
The Origins of the Net Neutrality DebateTelecos and their suppliers have been nursing dreams of a more flexible Internet -- one flexible enough to allow tiered pricing -- for years.
MIT Technology Review - July 8, 2006
Fat Cat Telcos Are Killing the NetInternet innovator Peter Cochrane writes that the opposition to Net Neutrality "is a pure money play by the dark side, who, if they succeed politically, will catapult us back to a time when they controlled connectivity and information flow."
Silicon.com - July 7, 2006
Net Equality, NeutralityThe U.S. Senate still has a chance to ensure that the Internet remains universally accessible and a powerful tool for consumers and businesses. This will only happen if lawmakers ensure Net Neutrality.
Seattle Times - July 7, 2006
Net Neutrality Supporters Say Telecoms Getting GreedyNet Neutrality is a major issue for small business. The Internet is one of the few fertile grounds for the emergence of smaller initiatives that can grow big, and now the telcos are whining to Congress, trying to change the rules.
Ventura County Star - July 6, 2006
Net Neutrality Sinks -- Every Man for HimselfIf Congress passes the telecom bill, Google is threatening to file an antitrust lawsuit against any violation of Net Neutrality principles. But they will only sue if Google is being affected, leaving small businesses to fend for themselves.
AXcess News - July 6, 2006
Opportunity Act Really NotBy forcing small, independent providers into the slow lanes of the information superhighway, those big cable and phone companies will have the power to drive upstart competitors out of business.
Courier-News - July 6, 2006
Democratic Party Adopts Net NeutralityThe Democratic Party has adopted Net Neutrality as a party issue following the rejection of a second pro-neutrality in a vote late last week.
Digital Lifestyles - July 6, 2006
Let Global Online Freedom Ring?The Internet is not bounded by national borders, but there certainly are differing levels of online freedom for Netizens around the world.
CNet - July 6, 2006
A Limit to Bloggers' Power?The cable and telephone companies have outmaneuvered them so far on Net Neutrality. But they could have some friends in the Senate.
Time - July 6, 2006
Websites Go After Ted Stevens for Knowing Nothing About InternetSenator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) appears to be the front man for the telcos. His 10-minute speech last week proves "that this man has no idea what the Internet is exactly and no idea about the issues behind Net Neutrality."
Alaska Report - July 6, 2006
Maintain Fair Treatment for All Internet ContentThe Internet is a profound form of democracy that has led to the Web being a vibrant and utterly diverse antidote to the consolidation of the traditional media, where fewer and fewer different voices are heard. Net Neutrality should be maintained.
Kennebec Journal - July 5, 2006
Senate Scorecard: AT&T 1, Google 0A Senate committee paved the way for telcos to freely set fees for delivering Internet content. But they still haven't won the Net Neutrality battle.
Business Week - July 5, 2006
If Senators Aren't Going to Understand Tech, Can They at Least Be Consistent?We already know that many members of Congress have no clue what they're talking about when it comes to technology. Instead, why not just use the their own actions and statements against them.
Tech Dirt - July 5, 2006
What Is Net Neutrality?Net Neutrality would guarantee the ability to pass information or send Web sites, for example, across AT&T's network to an Internet user. Without Net Neutrality, AT&T could block online content from Web sites.
Tampa Bay Newspapers - July 5, 2006
Google: No Net Neutrality Means Antitrust FightSearch engine giant Google has publicly warned it will challenge any attempt to infringe on access to its content under antitrust law, according to Google vice-president Vinton Cerf.
Consumer Affairs - July 5, 2006
Net Neutrality: The Debate Heats UpThose in favor of Net Neutrality argue that any non-net neutral scheme could allow ISP's to discriminate and control which data they prioritize, such as data from their own sponsors or media interests, turning it into something like cable TV.
Telephony World - July 4, 2006
Senator Who Voted Against Net Neutrality Confused by ConceptAnd with so many tech corporations having an effect on the stock indexes, what effect will it have to our country when the fundamentally technologically illiterate are allowed to craft legislation?
Blogging Stocks - July 3, 2006
When Uninformed Senators Make Laws...This is what happens when you have completely uninformed senators being fed completely silly and wrong information by large corporations -- like say maybe, oh, the telcos that want to create an (at least) two-tiered Internet.
AlterNet - July 3, 2006
Net Neutrality: Senate SedatedThe Senate Commerce Committee stalls on the Net Neutrality amendment, and the blogosphere reacts.
Computer World - July 3, 2006
Tech Faceoff: Net NeutralityThe fate of Net Neutrality policy will affect the cost of connectivity, access to sites, and the types of services (think video, music and Internet phone offerings) you'll be able to use.
Washington Post - July 2, 2006
Net Neutrality and Pre-Presidential PoliticsFormer Senator and Vice Presidential John Edwards talks about the importance of Net Neutrality at a recent conference.
About.com - July 1, 2006
Limited Time, Election Year Politics May Derail Senate Telecom MeasureA Senate committee passed a bill to overhaul the nation's communications industry, but it could fall victim to a limited legislative calendar and heightened political climate in the period leading up to this November's midterm election.
National Journal - June 30, 2006
"Future of Music Coalition" on Preserving the Dynamism of the InternetIf Congress allows cable and telephone companies to manage a tiered Internet, it will go the way of commercial radio that has been allowed to self-destruct, thanks to a lack of reasonable regulation and an obsession with seeing a return on investment.
ABC News - June 30, 2006
Senator Stevens Does Net NeutralitySen. Ted Stevens' (R-Alaska) rant from the chairman's seat of the Senate Commerce Committee raises some serious concerns about the telecom legislation that bears his signature.
Media Citizen - June 30, 2006
Stopping the Big Give AwayJohn Kerry (D-Mass.) voted against the Senate Telecom Bill because Net Neutrality and internet build-out are crucial to building a more modern and fair Information Society.
SavetheInternet.com - June 30, 2006
Internet Isolationism Is Bad for BusinessNet Neutrality has been the "secret sauce" behind a decade of business transformation. But the Telcos are declaring their intent to drop your traffic, starting with whatever you consider most valuable. This, they call "innovation".
Computer World - June 30, 2006
Stunning Development on Capitol Hill: Public Nearly Wins!Just a few weeks ago, who had ever heard of Net Neutrality?" How many Americans knew that in the name of the public interest their officials were quietly turning over control of the Internet to those nice folks at the telephone and cable monopolies.
Huffington Post - June 30, 2006
Net Neutrality: It's Pretty Simple, Really.The Telcos have to find some way to make you feel they care about you, so they're poormouthing about all the money they're having to invest in upgrading everything to broadband. But it only takes two logical jumps to get back to your wallet.
TMC Net - June 30, 2006
Senate Committee Cuts Net Neutrality AmendmentThe Senate Telecom Bill does not yet have language to protect Internet freedom. But as media coverage on the topic increases, awareness continues to grow and the general public is also jumping on the Net Neutrality bandwagon.
PC Magazine - June 30, 2006
If We Build It They Will Come:The issues surrounding Net Neutrality come down to billability and infrastructure. While saying they are doing us favors, ISPs and telcos are really offering us services they can bill for.
PBS - June 29, 2006
Net Neutrality Divides Bureaucrats, TooAs the Net Neutrality debate continues to rage in Congress, government officials are also divided on the issue.
United Press International - June 29, 2006
The Seventh Inning Telco StretchWhile telco lobbyists were celebrating last night's passage of the Telecom Bill through the Commerce Committee, today the landscape could make them a lot less sanguine about their prospects. They won the Committee vote, but lost a lot of ground.
MyDD - June 29, 2006
Debate over Net Neutrality Laws Rages OnLess than a day after a Senate panel concluded its own debate on Net neutrality, the political feud picked up again a few miles northwest of Capitol Hill.
CNet - June 29, 2006
Who Benefits from a Non-Neutral Net?The new question on Net Neutrality is "who benefits?" It can be difficult for those outside the Internet industry to get a handle on what's true. Perhaps if we look at who is talking, and from what pedestal, we can better understand.
Web Pro News - June 29, 2006
Senate Committee Approves Telecom Bill, but Republicans May Need More VotesSenate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) said he was not sure he had the 60 votes necessary to move the legislation forward and would be open to negotiating with Democrats when Congress comes back from its recess in September.
Washington Post - June 29, 2006
Net Neutrality Snags Overhaul of Telecom LawsThe disagreement over Net Neutrality now threatens to scuttle Congress's effort to rewrite the nation's telecom laws this year.
Wall Street Journal - June 29, 2006
Net Neutrality Battle May Sink Sweeping Telecom BillThe closeness of the Net Neutrality vote increases the chances of a Democratic filibuster that likely would derail the bill. The amendment could be offered again when the Senate votes.
USA Today - June 29, 2006
Telecom Bill Would Leave U.S. Lagging Behind Rest of WorldThe Telecom Bill is really a wholesale rewrite of the Telecommunications Act of 1934, the world's oldest existing telecom law. It is probably the most important piece of legislation the Congress will take up this session.
Seattle Times - June 29, 2006
Fight for Internet Freedom Moves to Senate FloorFree Press, Consumers Union and Consumer Federation of America respond to the Senate Commerce Committee tie vote on Net Neutrality.
Free Press - June 29, 2006
Net Neutrality Amendment Dies; Telecom Bill Goes to SenateAlthough the Net Neutrality amendment did not prevail in the committee, the issue could be revived. A similar amendment could be reintroduced into the Telecom Bill before a full Senate vote.
San Francisco Chronicle - June 29, 2006
Panel Nixes Buildout Amendment, Votes Down Net Neutrality PlanThe Senate Commerce Committee rejected a plan to require Telcos providing video services to expand those offerings to all neighborhoods throughout the regions where they offer service.
National Journal - June 29, 2006
Senate Deals Blow to Net NeutralityA U.S. Senate panel narrowly rejected strict Net Neutrality rules, dealing a grave setback to companies like eBay, Google and Amazon.com that had made enacting them a top political priority this year.
CNet - June 29, 2006
Wyden Blocks Telecom Legislation over Ineffective Net Neutrality ProvisionSen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) wants the telecom bill to include stronger safeguards for consumers to prevent discrimination in Internet access and usage.
Salem-News - June 29, 2006
Senate Panel Rejects Net Neutrality in Tie VoteA Senate committee rejected a proposal that would have required broadband providers to give their competitors the same speeds and quality of service as they give to themselves or their partners. The vote was an 11-11 tie.
IDG News - June 29, 2006
Net Neutrality Issue Holding Back Broad Telecom LegislationHold the fireworks this Fourth of July at AT&T and Verizon Communications. The phone companies might not have much to celebrate if Congress doesn't smooth their way into the TV market, as the divisive issue of Net Neutrality is far from settled.
Investor's Business Daily - June 28, 2006
Senate Panel Backs Telco Bill, No Net NeutralityIn a room packed with lobbyists representing companies and consumer groups, debate raged over whether broadband providers can charge more to carry unaffiliated content or to guarantee service quality, an issue called Net Neutrality.
Reuters - June 28, 2006
Senate Panel Kills Net NeutralityAfter almost two hours of often contentious debate, the Senate Commerce Committee defeated a measure to insert controversial Net Neutrality provisions into the panel's ambitious telecom reform legislation.
Internet News - June 28, 2006
Net Neutrality Measure Loses in Senate Committeet on Tie VoteThe measure faces an uncertain future because of the controversy over Net Neutrality -- how to ensure that consumers and Internet content providers continue having open and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet.
Mercury News - June 28, 2006
Congress Joins Net neutrality DebateThe U.S. Congress has plunged into a multi-million-dollar debate over internet usage fees that are feared by computing giants like Google and Microsoft and championed by the phone companies.
South China Morning Post - June 28, 2006
It's Hard to Be Neutral in Debate over Net NeutralityNet Neutrality prevents large Internet access providers from blocking or impeding access to the web-based services of their competitors. In other words, you, the consumer, have the power to determine what you see, read or purchase over the Internet.
Daily Southtown - June 28, 2006
U.S. Senate's Stevens Short on Votes for Telco BillU.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) said he does not yet have the necessary votes to get legislation to overhaul communications laws through the full Senate.
Reuters - June 27, 2006
Panel Progresses on Telecom Bill; Net Neutrality Is Next UpIn comments after the markup, Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) –- who is at odds with the proponents of strict Net Neutrality -– cited that as the issue with the greatest chance to torpedo the legislation.
National Journal - June 27, 2006
Senate Commerce Panel Rejects Three AmendmentsThe Senate Commerce Committee rejected three Democratic amendments to the Telecom Act. The amendments covered Internet telephone regulation, communications subsidies for emergency responders and city cable franchises.
National Journal - June 27, 2006
The Digital GatekeepersUndeniably, blogs and their collective identity known as the "blogosphere" have become an extraordinary phenomenon. And no matter what topics they may discuss or what political leanings they may espouse, they are all under grave and immediate threat.
The Fall of Autumn - June 27, 2006
Lawmakers Face Key Decisions on Future of MediaDemocracy Now! speaks with Hannah Sassaman of the Prometheus Radio Project which successfully sued the FCC three years ago in an effort to block the new media ownership rule changes.
Democracy Now! - June 27, 2006
An Internet for the Few or the Many?Michael Copps has a message for the technology industry when it comes to Net Neutrality: Get involved. Decisions without you are decisions against you.
CNet - June 27, 2006
Net Neutrality Faces Senate Panel VoteAfter an aborted start last Thursday afternoon, the Senate Commerce Committee expects to use much of today to debate the many points -- there are more than 200 proposed amendments -- of a sweeping telecom reform package before the panel.
Internet News Bureau - June 27, 2006
Net Neutrality: The Mainstream's Still UnconsciousMitch Ratcliffe writes that the main question surrounding Net Neutrality "is whether the network will be a field for innovation and entrepreneurship or a closely held and tightly controlled carrier asset."
ZDNet - June 27, 2006
Craig Newmark Versus the TelcosCraig Newmark, founder of Craigslist, plus representatives from the Christian Coalition, Internet telephone service Skype and the American Library Association did some last minute lobbying on Monday for Net Neutrality.
Technology Chronicles - June 26, 2006
State Governments Push for Net Neutrality LawsAs Net neutrality legislation comes up for a vote this week, state attorneys general in New York and California are joining Internet companies in saying that network operators must not be permitted to prioritize certain broadband content and services.
CNet - June 26, 2006
AT&T CEO's Political Donations to Net Neutrality OpponentsAT&T CEO Ed Whitacre has been spending his own money this election cycle.
ZDNet - June 26, 2006
Protecting Net Neutrality From The Neutricidal TelcosFor AT&T and Verizon to be screaming for free-market protection against Net Neutrality is "sheer hypocrisy," writes Cory Doctorow. "They themselves are creatures of government regulation, basing their business on government-granted privileges."
InformationWeek - June 26, 2006
Don't Let the Service Providers Discriminate on the InternetTwo leaders of Silicon Valley's economic boom sound the call for Net Neutrality: "Reinstating the Internet's core principle of Net Neutrality won't stand in the way of innovation."
Mercury News - June 26, 2006
