Resolution to restore net neutrality needs one more vote to pass in the Senate

Back in December, the Trump FCC repealed net neutrality. Originally agreed to by the Obama FCC in 2015, net neutrality prohibits carriers/ISPs from blocking certain websites, charging more for access to specific websites, or seeking premium rates for higher quality internet service. But before you bemoan the end of net neutrality, a last minute war is being wagered in the Senate and Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) now says Democrats in the Senate are a single vote away from restoring net neutrality.

A resolution that would restore the Open Internet Order of 2015 now has 50 votes. All 49 Democrats and one Republican (Susan Collins of Maine) are siding in favor of the resolution. But one more vote is required to prevent Vice President Mike Pence from showing up in the Senate to cast the deciding vote. If the Democrats can get one more vote from the other side of the aisle, it would be a slap in the face to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, appointed to the post by Trump.

As if trying to get one more vote isn't enough pressure, the Democrats are hamstrung by the clock. The Congressional Review Act gives the Senate 60-days to challenge a decision made by an independent agency like the FCC. With less than 30-days to go, Schumer and his coalition will have to scramble to reverse the repeal of net neutrality.

source: Engadget