FCC Debate Could Change The Way You Access The Internet

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — The way you use the Internet is about to change as state and federal officials fiercely debate the speed of your Web access.

Within weeks, the Federal Communications Commission could make it much harder for you to browse your favorite websites, unless those companies pay to send the content to you more quickly.

FCC officials are here and they are getting an earful as they make their decision soon.

The FCC is participating in forums across the country about net neutrality, which is defined as an open Internet free of unnecessary limitations.

Consumers are protesting the possibility of major providers such as Comcast or AT&T putting a squeeze on consumers by controlling the speed of the Internet. Critics say it could create a two-tier system where people who can't afford to pay more for fast service will be stuck with a slower, less efficient Internet.

Theoretically that would mean popular sites like Netflix and YouTube would come to a crawl unless you paid more.

Earlier this year, FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler proposed banning Internet providers from slowing down specific websites, but his proposed rules would not ban special high-speed toll lanes set aside for companies willing to pay for them.

Those fighting for net neutrality recommend reclassifying broadband providers as Title II providers, which would give the FCC the ability to create rules with teeth, unlike those passed in recent years that were tossed out by the courts.

Rep. Doris Matsui says her constituents have made it clear that the digital divide shouldn't be made any wider.

"Everything we do today is dependent on a free and open Internet. Net neutrality is fundamental to that. That means that nobody is actually taking charge of it. There are no toll gates," she said.

The FCC is expected to make a final ruling by the end of the year. The battle is currently over broadband providers. Wireless companies are not affected by and changes in rules.