Consumer Catch-up: Net neutrality repealed, car insurance sky-high, Southwest raises fees

Net neutrality officially repealed

The Federal Communications Commission has officially repealed the Obama-era "net neutrality" rules. The publication of the repeal in the Federal Register sets into motion a countdown for challenging the rule change.

Net neutrality keeps companies like Comcast and AT&T from giving preferential treatment to websites and apps.

Reversal supporters claimed the rules burden service providers. Opponents say the rules are necessary to ensure broadband companies don't abuse their power.

California and 19 other states have already filed lawsuits challenging the FCC's decision. The repeal will take effect tomorrow, Feb. 23.

CA car insurance among most expensive

A recent survey of car insurance rates across the country ranked California in the top ten most expensive. The state came in at number nine, with an average annual car insurance premium at more than $1,700 a year. That's almost $300 more than the national average.

The report, by online insurance quote service provider The Zebra, also found that many areas in California have seen rates rise more than 40% since 2011.

The Zebra said California does not include factors like credit and education when calculating rates.

Southwest raising fees

Boarding early on a Southwest flight could now cost you a bit more.

The airline raised fees for last-minute priority boarding to $50 per flight for some flights. It is reflected in their fare chart, which lists upgraded boarding at either $30, $40, or $50 per customer, depending on itinerary.

Upgraded boarding allows passengers to have a guaranteed boarding number between A1 - A15 by purchasing the option on the day of travel. The airline famously does not assign seats, but instead gives passengers a boarding number based on flight check-in time.

Southwest did not say which flights will be impacted by the change.

Click here for a look at more stories by Michael Finney and 7 On Your Side.

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