City pitch for net neutrality

THE DE BLASIO administration is asking Congress to pass a law restoring net neutrality protections, saying the rule’s repeal will deal a blow to the city’s small businesses.

The Federal Communications Commission voted last week to overturn regulations that barred internet service providers from blocking or slowing web traffic.

“Small businesses need to be able to connect to customers online in order to compete in today’s economy,” city Small Business Services Commissioner Gregg Bishop and Chief Technology Officer Miguel Gamino wrote to the heads of the House and Senate small business and commerce committees.

Net neutrality backers fear that without the rule, internet companies will demand money from companies to make their websites operate faster or favor their corporate partners. Chambers of commerce in Harlem, Brooklyn, the Bronx and Queens also signed on to the letter, as did the NY Tech Alliance, Civic Hall and Tech:NYC.

Congress has the power to overturn the net neutrality decision through legislation.

“Clear, enforceable rules provide a level playing field for entrepreneurs, small businesses and major corporations alike. As over 98% of businesses in New York City are small businesses, we are particularly concerned about the disproportionate impact the lack of net neutrality rules will have on this vital part of the economy,” the group wrote.