Ending Net Neutrality Will Harm Small Businesses

For Immediate Release: 
Thursday, December 14, 2017

Statement from Small Business Majority Founder & CEO John Arensmeyer on why the Federal Communications Commission’s decision to end net neutrality will be bad for small firms

The Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) vote today to end net neutrality is a blow to small businesses because the now-rescinded rules ensured a free and open internet and helped promote a level playing field for small firms.

Without a fair and open internet, small businesses will be put at a disadvantage when trying to compete with larger corporations that have the resources to ensure their websites receive special prioritization from their internet service providers. As a result, small employers could lose business because their websites might experience longer load times, or their sites could be blocked entirely from reaching consumers.

The majority of small employers are worried about this scenario. In fact, Small Business Majority’s scientific opinion polling found six in 10 small businesses say they’re concerned for their business if carriers have the ability to slow connection time or block content at their discretion.

What’s more, the reported agreement between the FCC and the Federal Trade Commission in which the two would police the internet in lieu of net neutrality rules is likely to be a weak and ineffective solution to a manufactured problem. Instead of attempting to play whack-a-mole as issues inevitably arise, it would be far easier if the FCC left net neutrality in place.

Maintaining an open internet through net neutrality helps ensure fair and equal access to broadband for both entrepreneurs and consumers alike. The FCC’s decision, however, shows that it cares more about giving a leg up to a few large corporations than ensuring small businesses and start-ups can compete.

 

About Small Business Majority

Small Business Majority was founded and is run by small business owners to ensure America’s entrepreneurs are a key part of a thriving and inclusive economy. We actively engage our network of more than 55,000 small business owners in support of public policy solutions and deliver information and resources to entrepreneurs that promote small business growth. Our extensive scientific polling, focus groups and economic research help us educate and inform policymakers, the media and other stakeholders about key issues impacting small businesses and freelancers. Learn more about us on our website and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Press State: 
National