Verizon challenges "net neutrality" rules
(Reuters) - Verizon Communications is going to court to challenge the top U.S. telecommunications regulator, saying the FCC overstepped its authority with the recent adoption of open Internet rules.
The telecommunications company said on Thursday it filed to appeal the Federal Communications Commission's rules to deal with "net neutrality" in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.
Verizon said it was concerned by the FCC's assertion of broad authority to make new regulations on broadband Internet networks.
"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," Verizon deputy general counsel Michael Glover said in a statement.
The FCC declined immediate comment.
In December, the FCC adopted Internet traffic rules that prevent network operators from blocking lawful content but still let them ration access to their networks.
When the rules were adopted, Verizon said it was concerned about unnecessary regulation.
The so-called net neutrality rules were designed to balance the interests of Web service providers, content companies and consumers, but some industry analysts said a court challenge would be likely.
(Reporting by Sinead Carew in New York and Jasmin Melvin in Washington D.C.; Editing by Robert MacMillan, Gary Hill)
Credit: Reuters (www.reuters.com)
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