In spectacularly bureaucratic fashion, the FCC just voted to start the formal consideration of its horrible net neutrality rules. That means the floor is now open for public comment, and the future of the internet is at stake. In fact, it’s up to you. “But how do I comment?” you ask. “How do I politely but firmly express my rage as a member of the public?” Let us show you the way.
Step 1: Visit FCC.gov/comments and find the proceeding with the title “Protecting and Promoting the Open Internet.” It should be the one on top and should also have over 20,000 filings in the last 30 days.
Step 2: Click the proceeding number “14-28“. You can also try to click this direct link, though it might not work every time. This will take you to the FCC’s Electronic Comment Filing System. It looks a little janky, but hey, the government built it.
Step 3: Fill out the form. Write about your feelings. Express your concerns. Air your grievances. Provide your real name and address. Hope for the best.
Step 4: Click “Continue” and make sure you like what you wrote. If you don’t you can modify your comment. If you do, click “Confirm”.
We asked the FCC what actually happens to these comments, after you send them off into cyberspace. This is the response in full:
To be clear: the NPRM approved by the FCC today has tentative conclusions on which we’re seeking comment, and many broad questions that we are seeking comment on. Once the comment period closes, we review the comments and apply them and the law to our proposals / questions, to come up with final rules. The Chairman has a goal for voting on final rules by the end of the year. Right now, it’s just proposals.
The comment period is until September 10, but you might as well get started now while the news is fresh. And do let us know how it goes!
Picture: Dan Stuckey/Twitter