As previewed yesterday, The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has voted to restore net neutrality rules, reclassifying broadband services as a “Title II telecommunications service” to regulate the broadband sector. These rules prohibit internet service providers from blocking, throttling, or engaging in “paid prioritization” of lawful content. The FCC aims to ensure a fast, open, and fair internet by treating it as an essential service and preventing providers from interfering with broadband speeds. However, the discussion around net neutrality is expected to continue, with industry groups likely challenging the rules in court.
Maryland and Nebraska have passed consumer data privacy laws, with Maryland also adding a Kids Code. Maryland’s Online Data Privacy Act of 2024 includes low thresholds for applicability, restrictions on the use of sensitive data, and stringent data minimization requirements. Maryland’s Online Kids Code prioritizes children’s privacy and safety and requires covered entities to conduct a data protection impact assessment. Nebraska’s Data Privacy Act mirrors Texas’ law and includes data minimization requirements, opt-in consent for processing sensitive data, and recognition of global opt-out signals.
Why do we care?
By treating broadband as an essential service, the FCC aims to maintain an equitable digital landscape where all content providers, regardless of their size or financial capabilities, have equal access to consumers. This is crucial for fostering innovation, protecting consumer rights, and maintaining the competitive dynamics of the internet. As IT service providers, we depend on customers having as many options and a competitive set of connectivity options.
Maryland and Nebraska’s enactment of consumer data privacy laws reflects a growing trend toward enhancing data protection measures at the state level, particularly in the absence of a comprehensive federal data privacy law. That said, it could all change if Congress moves.