So called “net neutrality” has been a buzz word among those on the left for several years since the internet has proven to be the private sector’s biggest success stories. However, where there is money to be made there is government waiting around the corner, and net neutrality is just another example of government mandated control of the private sector and further redistribution of wealth. Anyone who supports net neutrality on the basis of fairness is simply fooling themselves.
Similar to a government takeover of the healthcare industry, so-called net neutrality is essentially a government take over of internet service providers(ISP’s). Stifling private investment into new technology which could only improve broadband and communication infrastructure. Unfortunately, government’s heavy if not upper hand takes away any incentive for the private sector to compete.
What about content? Sam Batkins, policy director at the Center for individual Freedom told the Washington Times,:
“One concern is if the federal government essentially regulates what internet providers can do with their traffic, then the government can regulate on the issue of policy as well. If you give federal government control over internet service providers and what they can and can’t allow regarding traffic, they’ll have power over content as well.”
Net Neutrality has gone from a liberal rallying cry to real legislation on the hill. Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) and Rep. Anna Eshoo (D - Calif.) have already crafted a Net Neutrality legislation bill.
