A recent article in the New York Times, Net Neutrality Issue Divides Media Companies-NYTinmes.com featured the debate revolving around net neutrality, with Facebook rejecting a proposal put forward by Google and Verizon. AT&T called the proposal a "reasonable framework".
Outside of technology circles, most people have not yet figured out what is at stake. The debate revolves around "net neutrality", which in the broadest sense holds that Internet users should have equal access to all types of information online, and that companies offering Internet service should not be able to give priority to some sources or types of content.
In a policy statement last month, Google and Verizon proposed that regulators enforce those principles on wired connections but not on wireless internet. In other words, on mobile phones or on special access lanes, carriers like Verizon and AT&T could charge content companies a toll for faster service to customers, or some analysts worry, block certain services from reaching customers altogether.
Much of the debate rests on the idea of paid "fast lanes". Content companies would have to pay for favored access which would be a big change from the level playing field that companies now enjoy.
Google and Verizon, two leading players in Internet service and content are nearing an Agreement Google and Verizon Near Deal on Pay Tiers for Web- NYTimes.com that would allow Verizon to speed some online content to Internet users more quickly if the content's creators are willing to pay for the privilege.
The charges would be paid by companies, like YouTube, owned by Google, for example,to Verizon, one of the nation's leading Internet service providers, to ensure that its content received priority as it made its way to consumers.
Three trade groups representing U.S. businesses have called on the U.S. Federal Communications Commission to back away from plans to create formal network neutrality rules. Representatives of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National association of Manufacturers (NAM) and the Telecommunications Industry Association(TIA) questioned the need for the FCC to pass new rules prohibiting broadband providers from selectively blocking Web traffic. Business Groups Question Net Neutrality Rules-PCWorld Business Center
In April a federal appeals court ruled that the FCC does not have the legal authority to slap Net neutrality rsgulations on Internet provers. This case involved a "cease and desist" order against Comcast and they welcomed the ruling. Court:FCC has no power to regulate Net Neutrality Politics and Law- CNET News
Facebook issued a statement, " Facebook continues to support principals of net neutrality for both landline and wireless networks (emphasis mine)