U.S. Appeals Court Strikes Down Net Neutrality Rules in Landmark Decision

The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the FCC lacks authority to enforce Biden-era net neutrality regulations, reshaping the future of internet access and digital markets.

The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals invalidated the FCC's 2024 net neutrality rules, declaring broadband an 'information service' not subject to heavy regulation under Title II of the Communications Act.
The ruling follows the Supreme Court's 2024 repeal of the Chevron doctrine, which previously allowed federal agencies significant leeway in interpreting ambiguous statutes.
Internet service providers (ISPs) like Comcast and Verizon gain greater freedom to manage networks, potentially introducing tiered pricing and prioritization of traffic for a fee.
Critics warn the absence of net neutrality could increase costs for consumers, limit competition, and disadvantage smaller content providers and startups in favor of tech giants and ISPs.
The decision intensifies calls for Congress to legislate net neutrality protections, as state-level rules and market-driven approaches remain fragmented and inconsistent.