FCC Passes Tough Regulation of Internet Providers

The Federal Communications Commission has agreed to impose strict new regulations on Internet service providers that puts the Internet under the same regulations as the telephone.

The regulatory agency voted 3-2 Thursday in favor of rules aimed at enforcing what's called "net neutrality."

That's the idea that service providers shouldn't intentionally block or slow web traffic, creating paid fast lanes on the Internet.

The new rules say that any company providing a broadband connection to your home or phone would have to act in the public interest and conduct business in ways that are "just and reasonable."

Supporters of the move say the government needs to make sure Internet companies do not slow down Web traffic by giving priority to big websites.

Critics say this is a solution to a problem that isn't there, and net neutrality could morph into heavy-handed government interference.

Reporter/Anchor Mark Martin spoke with James Gattuso, senior research fellow with The Heritage Foundation, about net neutrality, including the role of the White House. Click play to watch the interview.