Time running out to speak up about Internet 'toll lanes'

[Commentary] The Federal Communications Commission is about to allow Internet providers to charge tolls for speedy access unless we raise our voices to get the agency to declare the Internet a "common carrier," infrastructure that must be open to all on an equal basis, just as telephones, television and railroads are.

This is a critical issue for small businesses and start-ups. But the deadline for public comments is July 14.

If you, like me, want the FCC to require Internet companies to treat small businesses equally, then contact the agency and urge them to classify the Internet as a common carrier. If Internet service providers are allowed to have a fast lane for those who pay a premium and if the fairness of this policy is decided on a case-by-case basis, start-ups and small businesses would have to challenge each discriminatory practice -- an unreasonable and expensive burden.