Google, Facebook, other tech firms push FCC for net neutrality

A computer user poses in front of a Google search page in this photo illustration taken in Brussels May 30, 2014. Google has taken the first steps to meet a European ruling that citizens can have objectionable links removed from Internet search results, a ruling that pleased privacy campaigners but raised fears that the right can be abused to hide negative information. REUTERS/Francois Lenoir (BELGIUM - Tags: POLITICS SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY) - RTR3RK9T (REUTERS/Francois Lenoir)

A group of tech firms, including Google, Facebook, Twitter, and others, are urging the FCC to draft and adopt net neutrality rules which favor an open Internet.

In a document entitled “Comments of the Internet Association,” the firms argue that the FCC should help the Internet remain open because “it remains an engine for economic growth, innovation, and democratic values.” However, the companies warn that “broadband Internet access providers continue to have the ability and the incentive to clog that virtuous circle.”

The Internet Association urges that the regulatory body should adopt “simple, light-touch rules to ensure that the Internet remains open, dynamic, and spontaneous.” The group also contends that there should be no fake slow lanes, and no fast lanes for companies that want to pay up for them. These rules should apply to both mobile and wired networks, the Internet Association states.

The Internet Association describes itself as a group that is “dedicated to advancing public policy solutions to strengthen and protect Internet freedom, foster innovation and economic growth and empower users.”

Aside from the firms mentioned above, other members of the Internet Association include Amazon, Yahoo, LinkedIn, Reddit, Yelp, Expedia, Airbnb, and others.

The open commentary period on the subject of net neutrality reportedly ends tomorrow, so if you want the FCC to hear what you have to say on this issue, go fill out this form to weigh in. Alternatively, you can send an email to openinternet@fcc.gov as well.

After tomorrow, replies to the first wave of comments will be permitted until September 10, The New York Times reports.

You can read “Comments of the Internet Association” in full here.