FCC Releases Cable-Franchise Order

FCC RELEASES CABLE-FRANCHISE ORDER
[SOURCE: Multichannel News, AUTHOR: Ted Hearn]
Let the litigation begin! The Federal Communications Commission Monday released a previously adopted order that gives local governments 90 days to reject or approve cable-service licenses sought by phone companies that already have facilities in city-controlled rights of way. The FCC’s decision to impose a deadline was designed to provide a measure of certainty to AT&T and Verizon Communications as the two largest phone companies put billions of investment dollars at risk in an effort to break into local video markets. Local governments are expected to appeal, claiming that the FCC lacks legal authority to impose time constraints on franchising authorities. The cable industry hasn't committed to go to court. The FCC adopted the rules in late December but needed 75 days to finish and release a 68-page order that attempts to justify its conclusion that in many instances, franchise negotiations are taking too long and frustrating competition.
http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6421729.html?display=Breaking+News

* Cities Challenge FCC on Cable Franchise Order
http://www.tvweek.com/news.cms?newsId=11650
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* FCC Order: http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-06-180A1.doc

* FCC Eases Video Entry For Telecom Companies
"The sum total here is an arrogant case of federal power riding roughshod over local governments," said Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB117312789384027421.html?mod=todays_us_ma...