A federal appeals court has upheld the Federal Communications Commission's authority to prevent Internet service providers from slowing down traffic speeds to certain websites and online services, dealing a blow to five associations that sued to overturn the new rules.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ruled 2-1 Tuesday in favor of upholding new net neutrality rules adopted by FCC last year, the Washington Post reported. USTelecom, CTIA-The Wireless Association, Wireless Internet Service Providers Association, American Cable Association and the National Cable & Telecommunications all challenged the rules in court, questioning the commission's authority to reclassify broadband Internet as a public utility that could be regulated.

"Two judges on the court have unfortunately failed to recognize the significant legal failings of the Federal Communications Commission's decision to regulate the internet as a public utility, leaving in place regulation we believe will replace a consumer-driven internet with a government-run internet, threatening investment and innovation in years to come," USTelecom President Walter McCormick said in a statement issued after Tuesday's ruling.

CTIA CEO Meredith Attwell Baker said the wireless industry her group represents "remains committed to preserving an open Internet." She added that the association "will pursue judicial and congressional options to ensure a regulatory framework that provides certainty for consumers, investors and innovators."

At least one association—NCTA—told the Washington Post it was considering its legal options now the court ruling has been handed down. http://wapo.st/1UzhJaN

Not all associations took the news badly. Online businesses such as Amazon and Netflix sought the protections net neutrality rules would provide, fearing Internet service providers would charge fees faster access to certain content.

"The court's decision to uphold and recognize the legality of strong, enforceable net neutrality rules for both mobile and fixed broadband internet connections is a victory for U.S. consumers," said Michael Beckerman, CEO of the Internet Association, which represents online businesses. "Through this ruling, the court has ensured that paid prioritization, blocking and discrimination of content has no place in a free and open Internet."

The American Library Association also was pleased with the court decision. The group supports open access to online content.

"America's libraries collect, create and disseminate essential information to the public over the Internet," ALA board president Sari Feldman said. "We also ensure our users are able to access the Internet and create and distribute their own digital content and applications. Keeping an open Internet—often referred to as ‘network neutrality'— is essential to meeting our mission in serving our communities."

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