This post is a bit different than usual, but just as important.
On December 14th the FCC is most likely voting to dismantle Net Neutrality.
Net Neutrality allows that every service (websites, information, products) on the internet competes on a level playing field and are treated equally. Without Net Neutrality big companies with lots of money will be able to speed up or slow down websites based on corporate or political interest. This could undermine small companies before they even have a chance to develop.
Without Net Neutrality companies like Comcast, AT&T, or Verizon can set up tiered package costs, meaning customers can’t access your website quickly without paying more. Internet service providers could pick the market winners and losers – for example, your website could not show up in google results as rankings depend on speed. (Your website being slower as than others because it’s not in the fast tier.) Or those companies allow your website get a decent connection to customers - as long as you pay $$$ for prioritization. Small business can’t afford $$$, but the multi-million competitors can, putting your small business in the slow lane, cutting off your customer’s road to you.
This all matters to small business owners – especially ones that do most their business online like artists who take commissions and sell online! Make your voice heard, take action.
Start Here:
https://www.battleforthenet.com/
Write Congress first, then call, then join the day of action December 12th.