The FCC head says a net neutrality lawsuit is inevitable

Just how controversial is net neutrality? So controversial, the Federal Communications Commissions chairman says, that a lawsuit from internet service providers is inevitable no matter how the agency rules.

"Look, the big dogs are going to sue, regardless of what comes out," Tom Wheeler told reporters Friday, according to The Washington Post.

Initially, Wheeler had planned to announce a compromise between content companies, like Netflix, and providers, like Verizon and Comcast. But on Nov. 10, President Barack Obama threw that plan for a loop when he urged the FCC to adopt stronger rules in favor of neutrality that would prohibit providers from charging companies extra for faster internet on their sites.

The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Sign up

Wheeler isn't saying what he'll announce or when, just to expect backlash.