Title
A MOTION expressing support for federal and state rules and policies protecting net neutrality.
Body
WHEREAS, net neutrality, sometimes referred to as "open Internet" or "Internet freedom," is described by the Federal Communications Commission as Internet where broadband service providers cannot block or deliberately slow speeds for Internet services or applications, favor some Internet traffic in exchange for consideration or engage in other practices that harm Internet openness, and
WHEREAS, practices such as throttling, blocking and paid prioritization have been considered by experts to hinder net neutrality, and
WHEREAS, King County is a world-leading hub of high-tech invention and development and the birthplace of many leading Internet and technology companies, and
WHEREAS, King County is also home to over two million residents, many of whom rely on the county to provide essential services such as law enforcement, healthcare, assistance for youth and the elderly and social services, and
WHEREAS, established county programs, services and information require affordable, accessible and open Internet access to better enable county citizens to avail themselves of these programs, services and information, and
WHEREAS, open Internet provides citizens the opportunity to search for gainful employment, participate in free web-based job training programs and learn new skills through online education courses, and
WHEREAS, public safety, emergency services, education and healthcare services all rely on the availability of broadband Internet service free from throttling, blocking and paid prioritization, and
WHEREAS, the preservation of net neutrality is necessary for the prosperity of the King County local economy, including, but not limited to, startup technology companies, rural businesses and entrepreneurs, and
WHEREAS, net neutrality encourages competition among businesses, fosters innovation, creates jobs and promotes economic vitality, both within K...

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