• An appeals court struck down federal rules that prohibit discrimination in access to broadband services.
  • The court ruled that the FCC exceeded its authority by imposing liability for ‘disparate impact’ rather than only intentional discrimination.
  • The rules applied to broadband providers and other entities like landlords that restrict broadband access.
  • FCC Chairman Brendan Carr welcomed the decision, while consumer advocates criticized the ruling.
  • The court also ruled that the FCC lacked authority to regulate entities that are not direct broadband providers.
  • The decision was unanimous by three judges appointed by Republican presidents.