Verizon: FCC Net Neutrality Rules Violate First Amendment

Verizon filed a 116-page page brief in federal court Monday evening against the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Net neutrality rules. The carrier claims that the FCC overstepped its bounds by establishing the rules in the first place. Verizon also claims that the FCC is trampling its constitutional right to free speech through its attempts to regulate the Internet.

"Here again, the FCC has acted without statutory authority to insert itself into this crucial segment of the American economy, while failing to show any factual need to do so," Verizon wrote. "Broadband networks are the modern-day microphone by which their owners engage in First Amendment speech."

The framework of rules developed by the FCC is intended to ensure an even playing field for all on the Internet, and prevent Internet service providers (ISPs) like Verizon or Comcast from blocking certain content, or giving preferential treatment to other content. Supporters of the rules say they preserve competition and consumer choice, but opponents argue they are an unnecessary burden on businesses and amount to government control of the Internet.

An FCC spokesman said the agency looks "forward to defending our open Internet rules in court."

"This strong and balanced framework is helping ensure that the Internet continues to thrive as an engine for innovation, investment, job creation, and free expression," the agency spokesman said in an email.

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