The House of Representatives voted on February 17 in favor of an amendment to a spending bill that prohibits the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from accessing government money to implement its new "net neutrality" rules, which are intended to ensure fair play among Internet service providers and to guarantee that consumers can access Internet content at prices and speeds that are comparable to those now available. Among other things, the new rules require broadband service providers to allow users access to all online content, including content from direct competitors. "The FCC has been on the receiving end of tough criticism over its claim of authority to implement the new net neutrality rules," says Keli Johnson, an attorney with Scott & Scott, LLP. "The House's proposed amendment, if passed in the final bill, likely will add a new wrinkle to that debate and may affect the course of litigation that already has been filed over the issue." For more information, please contact Ms. Johnson at 800-596-6176 or KJohnson@scottandscottllp.com.