Imagine driving down the highway from Seattle to Spokane when every other exit suddenly became blocked off, and the speed limit dropped by half.

That’s what the Internet would look like for the average citizen if the Federal Communications Commission proceeds with a plan to kill net neutrality this December — and it’s exactly what some are demanding right now.

FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler, a former lobbyist for the cable industry, is pushing for new rules that would allow big telecommunications companies to create Internet fast lanes for those willing to pay a premium — and slow lanes for everyone else. That means you could be denied access to many major websites that simply can’t afford to keep up with the wealthiest tech companies.

I’m not willing to stand by and watch that happen. That’s why I’ve joined with friends from across the Northwest to demand the FCC protect our free and open Internet — and why I’m asking you to join us.

Click here to tell the FCC to reject “fast and slow lanes” on the Internet and protect innovation. Sign the petition now.

Some of the biggest tech companies in the world call our state home — but so do local up-and-comers that can compete globally thanks to the Internet. This incredible access has leveled the playing field and ensures that Washington remains a hotbed of innovation.

But if our local startups are forced to pay big bucks to have the same access as Silicon Valley behemoths, this innovation could dry up. The effect on our economy — and our future — would be devastating.

I’m not willing to let that happen — and neither is my friend Suzan DelBene. We’ve joined together with leaders like Senator Ron Wyden to demand the FCC preserve the free and open Internet you and I rely on to connect with the world.

Will you join us in demanding the FCC preserve the Internet as we know it? Click here to sign the petition now.

Thanks for your support.

Very truly yours,

Jay Inslee