Having represented South Jersey, I have seen how our schools, small businesses and emergency services struggle in some parts of the region without reliable and fast internet access.

Without such access, our students fall behind, senior citizens lose access to the outside world, local businesses struggle to remain competitive, and vital services can fail when we need them. The internet is so crucial today that any changes to how we regulate it impacts people of all walks of life. This is why I believe Congress must act to protect consumers from price hikes and unreliable service.

I cannot support any additional costs for our residents. Many are still struggling with the aftermath of the 2016 state gasoline tax increase, the downsizing of the Atlantic City casino industry and a lack of stable job opportunities.

The Federal Communications Commission recently voted to repeal "net neutrality" rules, which kept internet service providers (ISPs) from charging higher prices and reducing speeds to content providers that are not preferred by that ISP.

Without rules in place, ISPs may explore offering prioritized service, charging people more for internet speeds they already enjoy. You might be left with internet service that is slower and more censored than what you have now.

This would hurt not only residents, especially those on fixed incomes, but also small businesses. Without regulations, ISPs can create pay-to-play schemes that only benefit established players in any given marketplace.

Simply put, innovation is lost when businesses cannot play on a level playing field.

It is up to Congress to seek a bipartisan solution to protect consumers and protect the internet. No other issue in recent memory has united so many people to lobby their lawmakers to take action.

State Sen. Jeff Van Drew, D-1, Cape May

Editor's note: Van Drew has announced his intention to run in 2018 for the U.S. House seat being vacated by Rep. Frank LoBiondo, R-2nd Dist.

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