Cuomo signs executive order protecting net neutrality in New York

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) signed an executive order protecting net neutrality in New York on Wednesday, making it the second state to issue such a rule after the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) decision to repeal the open internet regulations late last year. 

The order directs New York’s government not to enter into contracts with internet service providers unless the providers abide by net neutrality rules, which require they treat all web traffic equally. 

{mosads}”The FCC’s dangerous ruling goes against the core values of our democracy, and New York will do everything in our power to protect net neutrality and the free exchange of ideas,” Cuomo said in a statement. 

“With this executive order, we reaffirm our commitment to freedom and democracy and help ensure that the internet remains free and open to all,” he continued. 

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock (D) became the first governor on Monday to order internet service providers with state contracts to follow net neutrality principles. 

The executive orders are the latest efforts from Democrats to fight back against the Republican FCC’s vote to do away with net neutrality regulations. 

The vote was held in December. 

Democrats argue the rules were a check on the power of companies, such as Comcast and Verizon, that control access to the internet. 

However, Republicans and FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said there are already laws in place that advocate for an open internet, calling net neutrality regulatory overreach.