Net neutrality: US expected to ratify new rules on internet access
http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2010/dec/21/net-neutrality-us-new-rules-internet-access
Fixed-line internet providers will be prevented from blocking content and online services from rival companies or providing preferential treatment to paying clients under the new rules.
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The new rules also open the door for providers to charge customers more for using high-bandwidth services such as downloading or streaming videos on YouTube or online movie rental site Netflix.
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Al Franken, the Democrat senator, said the vote would decide "the most important free speech issue of our time".
"Imagine if Comcast customers couldn't watch Netflix, but were limited only to Comcast's video-on-demand service. Imagine if a cable news network could get its website to load faster on your computer than your favourite local political blog. Imagine if big corporations with their own agenda could decide who wins or loses online," Franken said on Monday. "The internet as we know it would cease to exist."
Do We Need FCC's Net Neutrality Order?
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2374593,00.aspConsumers certainly notice when providers start charging more for services, and I know many are concerned that their ISP will stop charging merely by connection speed and start implementing metered service (like your water or electric). That will completely change the complexion of your online experience and the Internet in general. Unless the rates are incredibly low, metered Internet access could transform Internet access into a world of haves and have nots. As it is, many Americans cannot afford or find the best and fastest quality of broadband access. 
