'Network Neutrality' Controversy Arises In Michigan Video Bill Debate

'NETWORK NEUTRALITY' CONTROVERSY ARISES IN MICHIGAN VIDEO BILL DEBATE
[SOURCE: Technology Daily 11/28, AUTHOR: Michael Martinez]
Opponents of a measure in Michigan to overhaul the state's video franchising rules have thrown a new wrinkle into their argument. Debate over the measure now has shifted to how it would allow high-speed Internet operators to treat online content. Discussion over so-called network neutrality provisions to ensure equal treatment of similar content has derailed a federal telecommunications bill this year. But this is the first time network neutrality has become a major issue at the state level. Over the past year, California, Indiana, Kansas, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia all have enacted laws to ease the entrance into the video services market. Large telephone companies pushing new video offerings have lobbied hard for such measures, most of which allow them to bypass localities completely by negotiating statewide franchises. Earlier this month, the Michigan House overwhelmingly approved a bill to that end -- but it might meet more resistance in the Senate. Democrats regained control of the state House this month but fell a few seats short seizing the state Senate. A coalition of opposition groups Tuesday held a rally in Lansing to urge Michigan lawmakers not to act on the measure, H.B. 6456, during the state's post-election session.
http://www.njtelecomupdate.com/lenya/telco/live/tb-FGMX1164763240180.html

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