HR 1542

Mon May 7 17:22:00 UTC 2001

The latest FCC rules prevent very much control over cable companies by the
city.  The city no longer has rate control nor can they attach provisions such
as "open access".   The cable company can't have a "monopoly" either but then
again, neither can the ILEC.  How many overbuilds are there?  An insignificant
few.

One tactic would be for a city to declare eminent domain and take over all
wiring (telco and cable) and run it absolutely open.  I am not sure I really
want to go there though.

"Joseph T. Klein" wrote:

> ....
>
> Most cable television franchises are regulated on the local level by
> municipalities. Each city created franchises based on the wish of the
> local city government. In some cites the cable company has a monopoly,
> some not. The cable contracts are from time to time up for review in
> some cities. If you have a problem with way cable is done in your town
> or city, then you should get involved in local politics.
>

...