The Open Internet Goes to Court
Channel: New America
Date: 13/09/2013

The Open Internet Goes to Court:
In Collaboration with Free Press



On September 9, the D.C. Circuit Court will hear oral arguments in Verizon's lawsuit challenging the Federal Communications Commission's Open Internet Order. This is a key moment that will shape the future of the open Internet. The outcome of the case is important to preserving the Internet as an open platform for free speech, civic participation, news and information, commerce and everyday communications. The case will also reopen the debate about whether the FCC has the authority to implement other broadband policy reforms.

The core principles of universal service, interconnection, nondiscrimination, privacy and free speech have been the foundation of U.S. communications policy for a century. These principles facilitated the development of a national communications network and fostered innovation and economic growth. The platforms and technologies over which communications flow have changed, but we must preserve and protect these fundamental values.

Unfortunately, many important programs and policies have suffered as the FCC has struggled to define the scope of the 1996 Telecommunications Act. These challenges have made it clear that we need to ensure these bedrock principles endure in the broadband age.

This event brought together experts to discuss their vision for a modern regulatory framework that is rooted in longstanding principles and also reflects the realities of an emerging broadband, IP-based communications infrastructure.

PARTICIPANTS

Susan Crawford
Professor, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
Former Special Assistant for Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy to President Barack Obama

Angie Kronenberg
Chief Advocate and General Counsel, COMPTEL
Former Wireline Legal Advisor for Acting FCC Chairwoman Mignon Clyburn

Marti Doneghy
Senior Legislative Representative, AARP

Matt Wood
Policy Director, Free Press

Steven Renderos
National Organizer, Center for Media Justice

Sarah Morris
Senior Policy Counsel, Open Technology Institute, New America Foundation

http://newamerica.net/events/2013/communications_regulation_broadband