Public interest groups have urged a US court to revisit its decision blocking the reinstatement of net neutrality rules. The appeal was submitted to the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals after a three-judge panel ruled that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) lacked authority to enforce the rules.

These rules, first implemented in 2015 and later repealed under a different administration, aim to ensure equal access to the internet for all users.

Advocates, including Free Press and Public Knowledge, argue that the court's ruling conflicts with a previous decision by another court. They emphasised the importance of protecting users from potential abuses by broadband providers, who might prioritise their own interests over fair access.

A representative for FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr, an opponent of net neutrality, has not yet responded to the appeal.

Net neutrality rules prevent internet providers from blocking or slowing content or giving preferential treatment to certain users. While state-level rules remain in place in regions like California, the court's decision could halt federal efforts to oversee broadband regulation.

Earlier this year, the FCC had sought to reinstate these protections, but industry groups successfully argued for a temporary block.

Supporters of the rules include major tech companies, while telecom industry representatives view them as unnecessary and counterproductive. The ongoing legal battles could determine whether federal regulators will regain the ability to enforce open internet policies.