Blackburn Video Choice Provision Included in Telecom Bill

BLACKBURN VIDEO CHOICE PROVISION INCLUDED IN TELECOM BILL
September 15, 2005

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Representative Marsha Blackburn (TN-7th District) called the draft released today of the Energy and Commerce Committee Telecommunications reform bill a "step in the right direction for consumers and new technologies." The legislation will update the nation's aging telecommunications regulations. Blackburn introduced H.R. 3146, the Video Choice Act of 2005 earlier this year to update video franchising regulations. The legislation unveiled today contains a provision that updates the video franchising process using reforms similar to Blackburn's proposal.

"We've got regulations on the books that are keeping prices high for American consumers," Blackburn said. "I introduced a bill aimed at cutting through regulation to inject more competition into the video service market. I've worked to put this issue on the front burner during the telecommunications reform debate and we've made significant progress. The telecommunications reform bill includes a video reform provision very similar to my legislation, and I'm thrilled with this giant step forward."

Current law requires that all companies interested in offering cable service or video service, as it is called in the industry, must negotiate an individual agreement with a local franchising authority. This mandate serves as a barrier to competition, effectively preventing new technologies from entering the market. The Video Choice Act of 2005 will streamline the franchising process for new marketplace entrance and give American consumers choice over their video and cable service at a lower cost.

http://www.house.gov/blackburn/press/Sept_15_05.shtml