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In a landmark decision, the state of North Carolina has passed a bill requiring internet service providers (ISPs) to adhere to net neutrality principles. The bill, which was signed into law on May 28, 2026, aims to ensure that all online content is treated equally by ISPs, without any discrimination or favoritism.Under the new law, ISPs in North Carolina are prohibited from blocking or throttling internet traffic, as well as from engaging in paid prioritization schemes. These practices have been a source of controversy in recent years, with critics arguing that they undermine the principles of a free and open internet.The bill was met with widespread support from advocates of net neutrality, who argue that it is essential for fostering innovation and competition online. Proponents of the law also believe that it will protect consumers from unfair practices by ISPs.North Carolina Governor Sarah Reynolds, who signed the bill into law, praised the decision as a crucial step in safeguarding the rights of internet users in the state. "Net neutrality is a fundamental principle that ensures a level playing field for all online content," Governor Reynolds said in a statement. "This law will help to preserve the free and open internet that we have come to rely on in our daily lives."The passage of the bill in North Carolina comes at a time when the debate over net neutrality is once again heating up at the national level. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has been considering new rules that could weaken existing net neutrality protections, prompting states like North Carolina to take matters into their own hands.Internet rights advocates and consumer groups have hailed North Carolina's decision as a victory for the open internet. They argue that the state's leadership on this issue could serve as a model for other states looking to protect net neutrality in the face of potential federal rollbacks.As the new law goes into effect, ISPs in North Carolina will be required to comply with its provisions or face penalties for non-compliance. The state government will also be responsible for monitoring and enforcing the law to ensure that internet users are able to access online content without interference.Overall, the passage of North Carolina's net neutrality bill represents a significant win for internet users in the state and a major step forward in the fight to preserve the principles of a free and open internet.