question: Summarize the importance of maintaining net neutrality in no more than 4 sentences, using only formal language and including at least two specific examples of potential consequences if net neutrality is not upheld.
answer: Maintaining net neutrality is crucial for ensuring equal access to information and fostering innovation on the internet. Without net neutrality, internet service providers could prioritize their own services or those of paying partners, potentially leading to slower speeds for competitors, as seen in instances where streaming services faced throttling. Additionally, the absence of net neutrality could result in increased costs for consumers, as they may be forced to pay extra fees for access to certain websites or services. Upholding net neutrality preserves the internet as an open platform for free expression and fair competition.