“In today’s society the internet isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. New Yorkers rely on it for their daily lives, whether it’s to apply for jobs, pay bills, enroll in health insurance or check on their child’s progress at school. But now, our ability to do all of this is threatened because the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) repealed net neutrality. The Assembly Majority, though, is taking action. We passed legislation requiring the Public Service Commission (PSC) to draft net neutrality principles and New York State would only be able to contract with internet service providers (ISPs) that adhere to these principles (A.8882-C).

“Net neutrality fosters innovation, freedom and fair access to the internet and protects consumers from profit-driven decisions by telecommunications companies. The FCC’s repeal went into effect earlier this month, meaning that ISPs can now pick and choose what content consumers see online, increase prices and push packages that favor certain content and information. It creates an unfair playing field, clearing the way for telecommunications giants to price gouge and take advantage of consumers and small businesses to boost their bottom line.

“We can’t let this happen in New York. Net neutrality is based on the core principles our country was founded on – an open, democratic system and the free exchange of ideas. By passing this legislation, New York is sending the message that we won’t simply roll over and allow giant corporations to control what information we see.”