Protecting Net Neutrality a No-Brainer for Small Businesses

President Obama released a statement today urging the Federal Communications Commission to take steps to protect net neutrality̢??‰۝the principle that all Internet traffic should be treated equally̢??‰۝by reclassifying Internet service under Title II of the Telecommunications Act as a utility. Protecting net neutrality is something small businesses support because it would ensure a free and open Internet and help maintain a level playing field for small firms.

By treating Internet traffic equally, small businesses would not be put at a disadvantage by larger businesses that have the means to have their websites receive special prioritization through their Internet service providers. In fact, six in 10 small businesses say they̢??‰?re concerned for their business if carriers have the ability to slow connection time or block content at their discretion. Maintaining net neutrality means Internet service providers would not be able to charge a fee for certain websites to receive faster service, or slow down content or block websites that have not paid to receive this special service.

Small Business Majority̢??‰?s Economic Agenda for America̢??‰?s Future points to equal access to broadband support as critical to driving business growth, entrepreneurship and job creation. Infrastructure investments like broadband support the growth of a vibrant freelance and entrepreneurial economy that relies on the Internet for access to markets, customers and services to support operations. What̢??‰?s more, Small Business Majority̢??‰?s polling found 59 percent of small businesses support creating a nationwide wireless network and expanding access to high-speed wireless services.

Ensuring an open Internet through net neutrality would be a step in the right direction to ensuring fair and equal access to broadband for entrepreneurs and consumers alike. We hope the FCC will move forward soon with strong rules to protect equal access to Internet service.