The New FCC Cable Franchise Rules
Protecting Local Interests and Navigating the Rules
Recording of a 90-minute CLE webinar with Q&A
Outline
- Key Provisions of FCC Rules
- Shot clock - 90/180 days to act on a franchise application by a new provider, with the franchise "deemed granted" if the application is not acted on in that time
- Build out – prohibiting unreasonable requirements about where the new provider has to provide cable service and when PEG channels, funding – restrictions on the number of PEG channels and PEG funding a municipality can obtain
- INETS - restrictions on I-NETS (communications networks provided by cable companies for municipal use)
- Fees - deducting from franchise fees some in-kind benefits, some application related
- fees and costs of non-cable related services. Free service to city and school buildings appears at risk.
- Combined networks – municipal authority over combined cable and telephone systems and their construction
- Application of FCC Rules
- Which states the rules apply to (states recently enacting laws aiding phone company entry into cable may be exempted)
- Whether the new rules apply to current cable franchises, or only at renewal
- How the rules apply to AT&T, which claims it is not subject to the Cable Act
- Challenges to the Rules
- Appeals of the order and requests for stays
- Beyond FCC authority
- Violate the Cable Act
- Responses to phone company requests for a franchise under the new rules
Faculty
John W. Pestle
Partner
Varnum
He represents communities across the country on cable and telephone matters. In 2006 he received a Special Award of... | Read More
He represents communities across the country on cable and telephone matters. In 2006 he received a Special Award of Merit from the Michigan Municipal League for his work to preserve local cable franchising and control over the public rights-of-way.
CloseTim Lundgren
Partner
Varnum Riddering Schmidt & Howlett
He has worked with municipalities in several states on cable and telephone matters.
| Read MoreHe has worked with municipalities in several states on cable and telephone matters.
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