Net neutrality is dead, and its passing should terrify everybody who uses the Internet.

A federal appeals court ruled Wednesday that the Federal Communications Commission did not have the authority to regulate broadband Internet access.

Before the ruling was handed down, Internet providers had to give equal priority to all websites. Now priority will be given to the highest bidder.

Video streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu will most likely increase their monthly subscription price to help cover new expenses, according to CNN.

The increased revenue would go to paying Internet providers, such as Comcast and AT&T for priority so movies could continue to stream smoothly.

In order to compete with the connection speeds of major paid websites, popular free websites like YouTube may begin to charge fees or create premium membership plans.

If websites do not pay for quicker access, they may not load at a convenient speed.

Affected websites could include De Anza’s main web page (deanza.edu), MyPortal (myportal.fhda.edu) and De Anza’s online learning shell (catalyst.deanza.edu).

Even though things look grim, there is a way to bring Net neutrality back.

Congress could pass a law that gives the FCC authority to regulate equal access on the Internet.

If enough constituents write or call their congressman or senator in support of Net neutrality then they will be encouraged to work on the issue.

To contact your local congressman, go to www.house.gov and enter your ZIP code in to the find your representative box located in the upper right hand corner of the page.

After you’ve entered your ZIP code, the website will take you to a page showing your congressman’s picture and name on the left hand side of the page.

Clicking on the name will link you to the congressman’s home page.

Mouse over the contact tab and select the email, phone or social media option.

From there the website will have steps for you to follow.

If you do not take action, Internet equality may forever be replaced with corporate bidding wars and favoritism.