WASHINGTON -- The Federal Communications Commission is going to be voting on a plan that could make free Internet access for the entire country a reality.

First proposed in 2006, the plan would launch a no-cost, smut-free national wireless service by allowing an auction of a swath of airwaves called AWS-3. The winner would be required to reserve 25 percent of the network capacity for free broadband, though they'd still be able to charge for other services including higher speeds. The FCC would also require a filter to automatically block adult content that users can remove once they've confirmed they're at least 18 years old.

Supporters say the network could help alleviate the digital divide in this country. Currently, only about 38 percent of rural households have broadband, most are still relying on dial-up and expensive satellite-based Internet. About 60 percent of suburban and urban households have broadband, according to USA Today.

The plan faces fierce opposition from several wireless companies including T-mobile. T-mobile paid $4 billion to buy a spectrum near AWS-3 and the company is concerned about interference. FCC tests dispute this claim.

The FCC is expected to vote on the plan at its Dec. 18 meeting and the AWS-3 auction would take place next year.