Video Franchising, 'Net Neutrality' Shape Hearing On Telecom Reform

[SOURCE: Technology Daily, AUTHOR: Drew Clark]
Disputes about both the terms of local video franchises and the ability of cable or telecommunications companies to block high-speed Internet traffic emerged as the hot-button issues in the first House hearing on telecom reform legislation. The franchising issue divides cable operators from Bell companies, and "network neutrality" on broadband services divides both sets of carriers from technology companies and public advocacy groups. The issues emerged in the wake of draft legislation released last week by House Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans. Representing the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors, Montgomery County (MD) Councilwoman Marilyn Praisner said the new draft "breaks faith with those deal points" about county officials' willingness to negotiate a streamlined nationwide franchising process. "This is an inappropriate federal and private industry intrusion into our streets and sidewalks," Praisner said.
http://www.njtelecomupdate.com/lenya/telco/live/tb-ROPZ1131573479054.html