The FCC today inched closer to tackling the looming issue of net neutrality when it announced a "notice of inquiry" into the pricing schemes of broadband Internet providers. The inquiry will collect information on options available to consumers to help the commission decide whether or not to regulate to prevent companies from charging higher prices for more reliable service or special content.
Net neutrality has been an inflammatory issue on Capitol Hill as Congress debates the need for laws that would prevent companies from creating a tiered approach to the Internet with fast and slow lanes for traffic. Opponents of net neutrality question the need to regulate a problem they feel doesn't exist yet.
The FCC on Thursday also voted to treat wireless broadband as an information service instead of a telecommunications service, meaning it will be exempt from some of the more restrictive telecom regulations, such as contributing to the universal service fund. More information here.
