House Bill 227

Chair's Name: Jeff Lewis

Committee: Energy, Utilities, and Telecommunications

House Sponsor: Jeff Lewis

The Consumer Choice for Television Act will stimulate Cable TV competition. A statewide franchise would add an additional option to the local franchising process currently in place.

This bill received a Do Pass recommendation from the Energy, Utilities, and Telecommunications Committee and comes to the House Floor under the Modified Structured Rule. 

Chairman Lewis' opinion of this legislation:

WHAT PROBLEM/OPPORTUNITY DOES THIS LEGISLATION ADDRESS?

Opens up cable TV markets to competition, and breaks up potential monopolies.

WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THIS LEGISLATION?

Remove a barrier to market entry by allowing in state franchise option.

THIS LEGISLATION:

• Reduces the Tax Burden on our Citizens:

Potential to lower franchise fee and lower cable bill.

• Increases Personal Responsibility:

Yes, by allowing more choices among providers.

Senate Changes:

The Senate made two types of limited changes to the bill. Housekeeping changes were made to clarify PEC obligations and public safety training channels, franchise renewals, and population figures. Minor changes were also made to strengthen the customer service aspects of the bill. Representative Lewis will likely move to agree with the Senate's changes.