FCC to Pass Net Neutrality Order

In a blow to Internet service providers, the Federal Communications Commission is expected to pass net neutrality regulations Tuesday, which would ensure that online users would have open access to all websites. The new rules would prevent conglomerates such as Comcast and AT&T from blocking websites and applications—or conversely, from giving preferential treatment to others—to Internet lines feeding into U.S. homes. Both sides have been lobbying the FCC for years: Telecom and cable companies have insisted these types of regulations could deter them from delivering high-quality service, while Internet giants like Google and Skype have joined with public interest groups in pushing for equal access for all. But wireless groups would not be covered as broadly under the rules, said an FCC official—they will be prohibited only from blocking competing voice and videoconferencing applications.