WASHINGTON — Google and Verizon, two leading players in Internet service and content, are nearing an agreement that could allow Verizon to speed some online content to Internet users more quickly if the content’s creators are willing to pay for the privilege....

Such an agreement could overthrow a once-sacred tenet of Internet policy known as net neutrality...

[UPDATE] Plus, for bonus points, the Associated Press calls Google's and Verizon's play to trash net neutrality "a proposal for so-called 'network neutrality' rules":

WASHINGTON – Google Inc. and Verizon Communications Inc. are close to finalizing a proposal for so-called "network neutrality" rules, which would dictate how broadband providers treat Internet traffic flowing over their lines, according to a person briefed on the negotiations.

The NYTimes and the AP are so-called idiots.