Two Democrats, Senate Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy and Rep. Doris Matsui, unveiled a net neutrality bill that would ban ISPs from striking paid prioritization deals with content providers.

The intent is to "prevent the creation of a two-tiered Internet system."

Paid prioritization is under consideration at the Federal Communications Commission, but due to a backlash, they are asking for public comment on whether paid prioritization should be banned outright.


Leahy and Matsui - as well as bill co-sponsors Sen. Al Franken, Rep. Henry Waxman, and Rep. Anna Eshoo - think so.

"Americans are speaking loud and clear – they want an Internet that is a platform for free expression and innovation, where the best ideas and services can reach consumers based on merit rather than based on a financial relationship with a broadband provider," Leahy said in a statement.

Those opposed to paid prioritization - particularly Sen. Franken - argue that it could lead to much more nefarious deals that could significantly impact the Internet.