The House voted down an ammendment allowing net providers like AT&T, Verizon and Comcast to block or slow access to some sites on the net while charging for better access to specific content. (something they’ve been lobbying for…) The legislation will come before the Senate which will hopefully include protections to prevent such abuse. The lack of such protections would allow service providers to setup virtual roadblocks and tollbooths online which could stifle innovation and free speech. A petition has been setup to protest the legislation. Please drop by and add your signature. If you feel as strongly about this as I do, please contact your representatives and let them know why this is a bad idea. An article on InfoWorld highlights some of Vint Cerf’s comments to Congress on the issue.