FCC reportedly close to reclassifying ISPs as common carriers

"Hybrid" approach wouldn't prevent all Internet fast lane deals.

by Jon Brodkin - Oct 31, 2014 4:45 am UTC

The head of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is reportedly close to proposing a "hybrid approach" to network neutrality in which Internet service providers would be partially reclassified as common carriers, letting the commission take a harder stance against Internet fast lane deals.

However, the proposal would not completely outlaw deals in which Web services pay for faster access to consumers.