Washington State Senate Bill Would Require Net Neutrality

A Washington state senator introduced a net neutrality bill Wednesday that responds to the FCC’s December decision rescinding Communications Act Title II protections. SB-6423 by Kevin Ranker (D) would require the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission by Jan. 1 to prohibit broadband ISPs from blocking content, degrading internet traffic, engaging in paid prioritization or interfering with customer access or edge provider provision of content applications, services or devices. A Washington House panel was to have considered two net neutrality bills at a hearing late Thursday -- HB-2282 by Rep. Drew Hansen (D) and HB-2284 by Rep. Norma Smith (R). Lawmakers -- mostly Democrats -- have introduced or promised net neutrality bills and resolutions in more than 10 states (see 1801160055).