FCC Revising Internet Rules After Public Backlash

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal Communications Commission Chairman Tom Wheeler is broadening the scope of his proposed open Internet rules and suggesting tougher standards for Internet providers who wish to create paid priority fast lanes on their networks.

According to an FCC official, Wheeler made revisions after the commission received 35,000 public comments –many of them expressing outrage. The FCC first briefed reporters on the proposed rules last month.

Wheeler, a Democrat, also tweaked his proposal after the five-member commission’s two other Democrats expressed concern.

The FCC will hold a preliminary vote on the rules Thursday before they are submitted for formal public input. Wheeler is aiming to have a set of rules in place by year’s end. An earlier set of rules was struck down by a court in January.