To understand the implications of passing the COPE act into law, one must first  become familiar with the word "net-nuetrality".   Net nuetrality is what keeps the internet a force for economic innovation and free speech; its a highly valued principle of the internet that allows users freedom of access to any number of websites, blogs, etc despite what server or service provider they may be using. 

The COPE Act seeks to change this and it is not suprising to learn who is spear-heading its passage:  chief telecom and Cable-television companies like Verizon, AT&T, Comcast, and Bellsouth.  The COPE Act would allow companies to block certain websites to its users; even worse, wealthy political parties or lobbyists could pay to have companies block their rival websites or blogs. 

Currently, the Federal Communications Committee has the power to prosecute companies attempting to block access to certain sites.  HCEC legislators defending the COPE Act assert that the FCC should not have the power to regulate these internet companies' business models.  But what our liberties as users?  Should my service provider really be able to regulate what I can and cannot view, based on its own monetary interests?  I don't think so. 

Stop the COPE Act

The Internet Doesn’t Play Favorites — and Neither Should Congress

Summary of the COPE Act