Senate panel rejects Net neutrality in tie vote (IDG News Service) Thu Jun 29, 2006 at 08:40:40

Wyden places hold on communications bill

ComputerWorld's coverage of the Senate Commerce Committe vote on Net Neutrality Wednesday wrapped up things this way:

June 28, 2006 (IDG News Service) -- A Senate committee on Wednesday rejected a proposal that would have required broadband providers to give their competitors the same speeds and quality of service as they give to themselves or their partners. The vote was an 11-11 tie.

The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee's 11-11 vote means the net neutrality amendment will not be added to a wide-ranging broadband bill as it goes to the Senate floor. The amendment, offered by Senators Olympia Snowe, a Maine Republican, and Byron Dorgan, a North Dakota Democrat, would have prevented broadband providers such as AT&T; Inc. and Comcast Corp. from charging extra based on the type of content transmitted by Internet-based companies.

Late Wednesday, Senator Ron Wyden, an Oregon Democrat, said he'll place a hold on the broadband bill because it lacks strong net neutrality requirements. By placing a hold on the bill, Wyden is saying he may object to the Senate beginning debate on that legislation. A hold on a bill can lead to a filibuster, if Senate leaders aren't able to fix the senator's objections.

You can see the whole report on ComputerWorld.com.