Court Rules FCC Lacks Net Neutrality Authority

The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) lacks the authority to reinstate net neutrality rules, effectively ending a long-standing effort to regulate broadband providers like utilities. This decision is a setback for the Biden administration, which had prioritized restoring these rules to ensure internet service providers treat all content equally. The ruling cited a recent Supreme Court decision that limits federal agencies' authority to interpret laws, leading to a conclusion that the FCC cannot classify broadband as a telecommunications service. The decision marks a victory for broadband providers and the incoming Trump administration, which opposes such regulations. Democratic FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel has called on Congress to legislate net neutrality, emphasizing consumer demand for a 'fast, open, and fair' internet. The decision does not affect state-level net neutrality laws, such as those in California.