Internet service needs the marketplace, not heavy-handed net neutrality regulation

As a staunch advocate for innovation and economic freedom, I firmly believe that the future of the internet should be shaped by the principles of the free market, not burdened by heavy-handed regulations like those proposed under the guise of net neutrality. The notion of net neutrality, despite its wholesome name, poses significant threats to the continued growth and dynamism of the internet as we know it.

In the great state of Florida and across our nation, internet service providers (ISPs) are investing billions of dollars annually to expand infrastructure, enhance service quality and connect more Americans than ever before. These investments, driven by the competitive nature of the free market, have led to significant advancements in technology and service delivery, contributing to the closure of the digital divide. It is imperative that we support and encourage these investments, rather than stifle them with regulatory overreach.

Opponents of this perspective argue that without net neutrality regulations, ISPs could unfairly control internet access and prioritize high-paying services over others. However, this argument overlooks the fact that competition among providers serves as a natural regulator, ensuring that companies continue to improve their services and treat customers fairly to maintain and grow their customer base. Furthermore, existing consumer protection laws already provide mechanisms to address unfair and deceptive practices as well as those that substantially harm competition, rendering additional regulations unnecessary and harmful.

The push for net neutrality regulations also ignores the substantial risks these rules pose to innovation. By imposing a one-size-fits-all regulatory framework on the internet, we risk discouraging ISPs from investing in new technologies and infrastructure improvements. This will inevitably slow the pace of innovation and delay the expansion of high-speed internet access to underserved communities, undermining efforts to bridge the digital divide. This is exactly what we saw when net neutrality rules were imposed for the first time in 2015. In the two years of utility-style net neutrality regulations, capital expenditures fell by more than $3 billion.

When those burdensome rules were repealed in 2017, despite the assertion of fear mongers, the online world did not collapse. Rather, an explosion in renewed innovation and investment within the industry began. Freed from increased regulatory uncertainty of Title II regulations, companies once again began to invest in growth, resulting in better service for their current customers and expanded access to service for unserved communities. But when it meets today, the Federal Communications Commission is planning to vote once again to reimpose net neutrality rules.

Instead of pursuing heavy-handed regulations, we should focus on fostering a competitive marketplace that encourages investment and innovation. Policies that support the expansion of broadband access, such as the removal of bureaucratic barriers to deployment, can help connect more Americans without imposing unnecessary burdens on ISPs.

As we move forward, let us not be swayed by the siren song of net neutrality. Instead, let’s champion the principles of economic freedom and competition that have long driven American innovation and prosperity. By doing so, we can ensure that the internet remains a vibrant, dynamic force for good in our society, driving economic growth and connecting communities across Florida and the entire nation.

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U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis is a Palm Harbor Republican representing Florida’s 12th congressional district and a senior member of the Energy and Commerce Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives.