The FCC wants toll lanes on the internet... fight it!

Why am I hammering on this? Because if it's not fixed, we're going to either lose the internet as we know it or have to fight this same stupid fight every year until it's either fixed or ... we lose. It's YOUR choice.

First off, I recommend this video. It's 11 minutes long... but if you don't watch it, at least read the transcript. At the end of the post there are LOTS of links for people to take action. So take it already. If you like the internet and have not taken action, you are shooting yourself in the foot by ignoring this.

Several major companies have figured out that, by imposing toll lanes, ISPs are going to destroy the 'net. They've spoken up as well.

But YOU need to take action. If you are reading this now, understand that if net neutrality fails, you may never be able to read this or other content that you want to read again, because the ISP will be deciding what you get access to, not you.

Ask the FCC to classify internet access as a Title II telecommunications service under the Communications Act.

You should also sign BOTH these White House Petitions: Reclassify Internet broadband providers as common carriers and Maintain true net neutrality to protect the freedom of information in the United States.

If you want a template for a letter to the FCC, try this:

To whom it may concern,

I am writing to comment on the FCC's recent proposed changes to net neutrality. In particular, the decision to enact a 'fast lane' in which companies would be allowed to charge for faster internet broadband access.

As a concerned citizen I feel it is imperative that broadband access, and internet access in general, remain unfettered and classified as a Title II telecommunications service under the Communications Act.

Prioritizing one type of internet traffic in favor of another does not promote net neutrality. Nor does creating a 'fast lane' for those who are able to pay a steeper price.

The internet is is a medium through which information is broadcast and transmitted. It is the 21st century equivalent of an open forum at a town meeting. Whether or not a citizen participates it is of his or her own accord, but the right of every citizen to participate it should not be infringed upon.

A corporate entity cannot limit participation at these town meetings to only those who can afford to attend. A corporate entity also should not have the power to limit a citizen body's right to free speech, assembly, free press and petition for government address of grievances by limiting broadband access.

As a consumer, I once again strongly urge the FCC to classify broadband access as a Title II telecommunications service under the Communications Act.

Thank you very much for your time,

Insert your real name and address here.

And then send this to your elected officials, including the White House, as well.