Net neutrality advocates score big win with broadband stimulus rules - Network World

Net neutrality advocates are cheering Thursday after learning that the federal government will require any applicants to its broadband stimulus funds to maintain nondiscriminatory networks.

Under the Notice of Funds Availability (NOFA) released Wednesday, any applicants that want to receive government stimulus funding for their broadband projects must adhere to the Federal Communications Commission's policy statement mandating that "consumers are entitled to access the lawful Internet content of their choice" and "consumers are entitled to run applications and services of their choice, subject to the needs of law enforcement." Under the rules, applicants must also display their network management practices "in a prominent location" on their company Web site and must offer interconnection with rival carriers "where technically feasible..."