What They're Saying

By J.P. Ellery, Worcester Telegram & Gazette | May 17, 2007

Selectman David A. Delanski is concerned that local control of cable TV and local access channels may be lost if legislation is approved to aid Verizon's entry into the cable TV business in Massachusetts.

Local access allows communities to carry government meetings, original programming and community events on cable TV.

"That's one question," Mr. Delanski said. "There's a lot of questions. Does it affect cable access? And, Number Two: How much authority does it take away from the local licensing authority?"

A legislative hearing is set for June 5 in Boston on House Bill 3385 and Senate Bill 1975, which are supported by Verizon and would pre-empt local cable TV franchising authority and leave the state only two weeks to approve or deny an application, according to the Massachusetts Municipal Association.

The MMA, a statewide organization that supports, advises and lobbies on behalf cities and towns in Massachusetts, is opposed to the legislation.

Comcast, which serves Warren and other cities and towns, and Verizon are in a dogfight over the legislation. Both companies are sending letters to local officials seeking their support or opposition to the legislation.

"Under this legislation," Comcast wrote, "a local government would have no authority to approve who is using its rights of way nor to require that service be made available to all its residents."

Verizon counters that "no consumers will be hurt by this legislation. Competition drives (cable) providers to offer more programming options, innovative technology and competitive prices."

According to Comcast, Verizon wants a special exemption from local regulation, but that will come at the expense of consumer protections and community benefits such as public access programming.

The MMA, in a letter to selectmen, wrote that the proposed legislation will "undermine our communities, consumers and competition. Verizon and their supporters ignore the legal and civic obligations cities and towns have to protect the public rights of way."