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Jul 15, 2014
Net Neutrality Enhances Quality of Life for Older Americans, Says AARP

Washington (July 15, 2014) — Abandoning net neutrality in favor of Internet “fast lanes” would jeopardize future innovation and core consumer protections, AARP said today in comments filed with the Federal Communications Commission.

AARP’s comments came in response to the FCC’s Notice for Proposed Rulemaking on Net Neutrality, also known as “Open Internet.”  Internet fast lanes, as proposed by Commission Chairman Tom Wheeler, would allow providers to request more in payment for faster transmission of Internet content under certain conditions.

Fees would particularly disadvantage non-commercial use of the Internet, according to AARP, which would be to the detriment of older Americans and the public in general.  AARP noted that -- under the fast lane alternative -- areas such as home automation, medical monitoring, and other services that will support aging in place would be less competitive.

“The widespread availability of high quality and affordable broadband connections…is enabling new applications and services that are enhancing older American’s quality of life, including new methods of delivering healthcare and support for independent living,” said AARP.  “Policies to promote a vibrant and competitive Internet ecosystem are essential for the continuation of this success.”

Broadband service, which currently falls under Title I of the Communications Act, should be reclassified as a Title II telecommunications service, said AARP, in order to preserve a system of open access, facilitate broadband adoption and encourage innovation.


The full text of AARP’s filing with the FCC is available on the AARP website. AARP’s response to Net Neutrality

  

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AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of nearly 38 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse. We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services.  A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a Spanish-language website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates.  The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more atwww.aarp.org.

CONTACT:
Mark Bagley
202.434.2504 or mbagley@aarp.org