The video discusses the potential threat to net neutrality, a principle that ensures all online data is treated equally, regardless of who creates it. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering a proposal that would allow internet providers to charge tech companies for faster content delivery, which could lead to a two-tier system and negatively impact start-ups and smaller companies. The video argues that this change would benefit large cable companies, such as Comcast and Verizon, which have significant lobbying power and have spent millions of dollars to influence the government. The video concludes by urging viewers to take action and comment on the FCC's proposal, which is open for public comment for 120 days.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering a proposal to change the way the internet works.
2. The proposal would allow internet providers like Comcast and Verizon to charge tech companies to send content to consumers more quickly.
3. This would create a two-tier system, where companies that pay more would get faster internet speeds.
4. The proposal is based on Section 706 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996.
5. The FCC is taking public comment on the proposal for 120 days.
6. Net neutrality is the principle that all data on the internet should be treated equally, regardless of who creates it.
7. The internet is currently a "level playing field" where startups can compete with established brands.
8. The FCC is considering allowing internet providers to charge companies like Netflix to stream content more quickly.
9. Comcast and Time Warner Cable have been sued for allegedly slowing down internet speeds for companies that don't pay them.
10. A federal study found that 96% of the population has access to two or fewer cable broadband providers.
11. Comcast and Time Warner Cable have been ranked as the worst companies in terms of customer satisfaction.
12. The cable industry has spent millions of dollars on lobbying to influence the government's decision on net neutrality.
13. Tom Wheeler, a former lobbyist for the cable industry, has been appointed as the chairman of the FCC.
14. The FCC is responsible for regulating the cable industry, but the industry has significant influence over the agency.
15. The US pays more for internet service than almost any other country, but has slower download speeds than many other countries, including Estonia.
16. The FCC will be taking public comment on the proposal at a specific address.