Opponents of the new net neutrality rules in the US have succeeded in calling a vote in the US Senate to overturn the FCC's plans. They are hoping a slim majority in the Senate will reject the Federal Communications Commission decision in December to repeal Obama-era rules guaranteeing an open internet.
Senate Democrats on 09 May will officially file a petition to force a net neutrality vote and 10 hours of floor debate under the Congressional Review Act. Advocates believe the Senate will vote before the end of next week, Reuters reports. The measure has the backing of 47 Democrats and two independents as well as Republican Senator Susan Collins. With the prolonged absence of Senator John McCain due to illness, proponents believe they will win on a 50-49 vote.
However, the effort is unlikely to pass the Republican-controlled House of Representatives or survive a veto by President Donald Trump. The FCC has not yet published its revised rules, despite approving the changes in December. Officials have said the commission will likely give at least 30 days notice before the rules officially take effect, and an effective date could be announced in the coming days, Reuters reported. In the meantime, the FCC decision already faces a number of legal challenges in court.
