WASHINGTON – A three-judge federal panel will hear arguments Monday between Verizon and the Federal Communications Commission that could determine the future of the Internet.

Verizon, one of the nation’s biggest Internet service providers, is battling for the right to charge fees to content providers who are willing to pay to have their data transported faster to customers.

The FCC’s stand is that Verizon and other ISP’s must provide content freely so that all have an equal ability to reach consumers. The FCC says if certain companies are able to buy greater access to Internet users, the playing field will favor the richest companies, according to The New York Times.

Verizon’s battle with the FCC resumes this week in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

The Times reports the court fight is a monumental battle that will determine the regulatory power of the FCC in the 21st century.

The court is not expected to issue a ruling for several months.

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