New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo today signed an executive order that would enforce new neutrality rules in the state. Similar to an order signed by the governor of Montana, Cuomo’s order would mandate that any internet service provider doing business with the state to adhere to certain principles of net neutrality.
Specifically, New York State’s net neutrality rules would prevent ISPs from blocking or throttling content and/or web sites. Nor could ISPs prioritize applications or content, or force consumers to pay higher rates to access specific content or apps.
“The internet is an essential service that should be available to all New Yorkers,” said Cuomo. “The free exchange of information, including the ability to access the content of their choosing secured by net neutrality protections, is expected and relied upon by all New Yorkers.”
Cuomo’s executive order would prevent the state from doing business with any internet provider, wired or wireless, that does not adhere to the rules. Cuomo tasked New York’s Department of Public Service to evaluate and eventually enact such rules.
