The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented new rules to eliminate internet access discrimination. The rules empower the FCC to review and investigate instances of discrimination by broadband providers based on factors such as income, race, ethnicity, and other protected classes, marking the first major US digital civil rights policy.

The rules package ratified by the commission also enables the FCC to address disparities in investment in different neighbourhoods and the 'digital divide,' which refers to the lack of internet access experienced by many communities due to regional or socio-economic inequality.

The telecommunications industry has voiced opposition, arguing that the rules are unnecessary and could impede community investment. The industry's primary trade association, The National Cable and Telecommunications Association, has called the rules 'potentially unlawful' and accused the FCC of seeking 'expansive new authority over virtually every aspect of the broadband marketplace.'

Meanwhile, digital advocacy group Free Press Action has applauded the rules but called on the FCC to go further by reclassifying certain aspects of broadband to increase the agency's oversight powers. Advocates argue that there is a need to ensure that communities benefit from the FCC's efforts to eliminate discrimination in internet access.

In addition to the new rules, the FCC is expected to reintroduce net neutrality rules rescinded under the Trump administration. This aligns with President Joe Biden's goal of providing quality internet service to every US household by 2030, regardless of income or identity.

Why does it matter?

The FCC's implementation of these rules represents a significant step towards addressing digital discrimination and promoting equitable internet access for all communities. The rules are implemented in response to bipartisan infrastructure legislation passed at the start of the Biden administration, which required the FCC to adopt rules addressing digital discrimination. This will facilitate the examination of whether internet service providers knowingly discriminate in developing, upgrading, or maintaining internet access.