CRI听力:FCC Approves Net Neutrality Internet Rules

U.S. regulators have approved the toughest rules yet on Internet service providers, bringing in rules to ensure the fair treatment of all web traffic through US networks.

The Federal Communications Commission has approved new "net neutrality" rules that prohibit broadband service providers from control download speeds or offering faster service in return for payment.

FCC chair Tom Wheeler:

"The action that we take today is an irrefutable reflection of the principal that no one -- whether government or corporate　-- should control free and open access to the internet. The internet is the most powerful and pervasive platform on the planet. It is simply too important to be left without rules and without a referee on the field."　
 
The new regulations come after a year of jostling between cable and telecom companies and net neutrality advocates, which have included web startups.

The new policy reclassifies broadband, both fixed and mobile, as more heavily regulated "telecommunications services," which is more like a traditional telephone service.

Broadband in the US had been classified as a more lightly regulated "information service".

The shift gives the FCC more authority to police various types of deals between service providers and content companies.

Cable and telecom providers have argued the stricter measures will discourage investment and stifle innovation.

It is expected they plan to battle the new "net neutrality" regulations through lawsuits.