Why the FCC's network neutrality proposal is the right one for right now

[Commentary] Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski's network neutrality proposal builds on the work begun by past Republican Chairmen Michael Powell and Kevin Martin and accomplishes four key goals:

1. Increases transparency for broadband consumers: The Open Internet framework ensures that consumers have the right to know how broadband networks are managed and serviced. The new measure implements sunshine regulations to ensure cable companies are transparent so that subscribers have the information to innovate. When problems arise they can be caught early, reducing the overall number of complaints to the FCC.
2. Protects the right to send and receive Internet traffic: The Internet will continue to be a platform for free speech and democratic engagement under the new guidelines. Broadband providers will not have the power to block and censor access to legal content, applications and services. The new rules also bar broadband providers from favoring their content over their web rivals by providing quicker upload speeds and better quality.
3. Provides a level playing field online: The Internet is a meritocracy – everyone begins on a level-playing field and the market decides which ideas succeed and fail. No single entity, be it public or private, should have the power to decide who succeeds and who fails. The proposed rules let the marketplace determine the most successful ideas.
4. Encourages increased investment in broadband deployment: The framework also recognizes that the Internet is a two way street. Broadband companies must have the opportunity to invest in their networks so they can continue to compete. These Internet providers need flexibility to manage their networks and to deal with harmful traffic from unwanted users and heavy congestion.

We all benefit when the Internet is more accessible, transparent, and free. By adopting this bipartisan framework, the FCC will finally settle the question of whether consumers or broadband providers should determine the future of e-commerce. America has many strengths, and I believe primary among these is our ability to innovate. This set of common sense principles will unleash America's entrepreneurial spirit to compete in an increasingly competitive world.