Oregon advances state net neutrality proposal

In response to moves by federal regulators ending net neutrality, Oregon legislators advanced a proposal aimed at forcing internet service providers in the state to treat all types of content equally.

The proposal advanced on a 40-17 House vote, sending it to the Senate.

The measure wouldn't mandate internet providers take any action, but would stop state agencies from buying internet service from any company that blocks or prioritizes specific content or apps, starting in 2019.

More: FCC Chair Ajit Pai defends net neutrality repeal to doubters at Mobile World Congress

Republican legislators objected to the bill, and tried to substitute a study group, citing concerns that empowered state agencies might over reach, and ultimately themselves begin regulating internet content. But Democratic legislators voted the substitution down, pointing to effective dates for federal rules later this year as precluding delay.