On December 4, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit heard oral arguments about the FCC’s new Open Internet Order (Net Neutrality Rules) that took effect in June.

Petitioners from the telecom industry seeking to block the rules argued against the FCC’s rulemaking process, its authority to reclassify broadband as common carrier telecommunications service, and stated concerns about First Amendment rights. Supporters of the FCC’s rules also made arguments at the brief hearing. Judges are expected to make a decision this spring.

The FCC has faced several court challenges over net neutrality over the past decade, and it is predicted that this current challenge could reach the Supreme Court. PAA will keep you updated as the DC Circuit Court heads towards a decision.