The so-called "Net Neutrality" bill that would keep Internet network providers from being able to allocate network bandwidth as they see fit is gaining some serious momentum from consumer groups. The
American Association of Retired Persons, with its 35 million-plus members, is the latest--and biggest--among a growing list of companies to back the initiative urging senators to require net
neutrality principles by law. While the AARP isn't typically the kind of organization you would think would back technology legislation one way or another, recent surveys show that some 72 percent of
50- to 59-year-olds access the Web on a regular basis. Network providers like AT&T, Verizon, Comcast and others argue that concerns about Internet control via the proposed fast lane are theoretical,
making new laws unnecessary. The AARP sent a letter to Congress urging legislators to back the Net Neutrality bill proposed by Senator Wyden of Ohio. A total of 64 companies have sent identical
letters to the House Energy and Commerce Committee backing legislation, including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, TiVo, eBay, Yahoo, Adobe Systems, BT America, the Digital Media Association and Sony
Electronics. All argue that "unfettered" Internet access is essential to any consumers' bill of rights.
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