On February 26, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruled - in a split (3-2) vote and along party lines - to reclassify broadband as a utility. The action gives the commission more regulatory power over Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

Although reflective of many of the record number of public comments, the ruling has resulted in some members of Congress developing an alternative legislative response.

Chairs of the telecommunications committees, Sen. John Thune (R-SD) and Reps. Fred Upton (R-MI) and Greg Walden (R-OR),  are working on an alternative plan for net-neutrality policy. Members of the U.S. House Judiciary Committee also penned sharp opposition to the FCC rule, and Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) introduced legislation (H.R. 1212) that would remove the FCC's authority even to reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service.

At the heart of the issue is how to ensure an open Internet that preserves everyone's ability to communicate freely online to learn, engage, express themselves, innovate, and be entrepreneurial. The current open architecture of the Internet has created unprecedented opportunities for artists, cultural organizations, and entrepreneurs to reach audiences, build businesses, and share their work.

In the days right before last week's FCC ruling, more than 85 artists, organized by the Future of Music Coalition, weighed in showing support for the FCC Chairman's anticipated plan, including members of R.E.M., Aerosmith's Joe Perry, and OK Go. Artists also united together before there even was an official public comment period, including Eddie Vedder, Michael Stipe, Neko Case, Erin McKeown, Fugazi, Mark Ruffalo and Evangeline Lilly, who wrote to support protecting the open Internet as a vehicle for free expression and collaboration.

For several years, net neutrality concerns have been a part of our annual message to Congress during Arts Advocacy Day. It is again this year when 400+ arts advocates will be on the Hill on March 24.