Verizon Appeals FCC's Net Neutrality Order

Here's a surprise: Verizon isn't too fond of the FCC's Net Neutrality order. Actually, that isn't too much of a surprise. Many ISPs, cellphone carriers and other operators in this space are very hesitant to jump onboard the FCC's latest train, as any additional regulation and oversight into their industry could mean less control for how they conduct their own business. Verizon is in a very interesting position, though. Unlike many other carriers, Verizon has ties to a home-based Internet service (FiOS) as well as 3G and 4G wireless networks through Verizon Wireless. So the Net Neutrality order definitely touches nearly every major aspect of this company.
This week, Verizon actually went so far as to file an appeal in Federal Court regarding the order, with Michael E. Glover, Verizon senior vice president and deputy general counsel, saying the following: "Verizon has long been committed to preserving an open Internet and meeting the needs of our customers.  We have worked extensively with all players in the Internet and communications space to shape policies that ensure an open Internet and encourage investment, innovation and collaboration with content providers and others to meet the needs of consumers. Today's filing is the result of a careful review of the FCC's order. We are deeply concerned by the FCC's assertion of broad authority for sweeping new regulation of broadband networks and the Internet itself. We believe this assertion of authority goes well beyond any authority provided by Congress, and creates uncertainty for the communications industry, innovators, investors and consumers."

The point is pretty clear: Verizon isn't a fan of the order, and they're hoping to do everything in their power to change what they don't like about it. This issue is clearly a double-edged sword. On one hand, it's good to tell ISPs that they can't throttle users or dictate how their pipes are used. But on the other, consumers don't need ISPs jacking up rates or creating new tiers in order to compensate for added regulation.

It's tough to say how all of this will play out. We're sure that Verizon's lobbying dollars can go a long way, and Verizon Wireless is America's largest wireless carrier. Regardless of the outcome, we highly doubt this will go unnoticed in Washington, D.C.