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CABLE Expansion Act
1/11/2023, 1:47 PM
Summary of Bill HR 1061
One of the key provisions of the CABLE Expansion Act is the establishment of a grant program to provide funding for the construction of cable infrastructure in underserved areas. This program would be administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and would prioritize projects that serve rural and low-income communities.
Additionally, the bill includes measures to streamline the permitting process for cable providers looking to expand their networks. This would help to reduce the regulatory barriers that can often hinder the deployment of cable infrastructure in certain areas. Overall, the CABLE Expansion Act aims to improve access to cable television services for all Americans, particularly those living in rural and underserved communities. By promoting competition and streamlining the permitting process, the bill seeks to increase consumer choice and drive down prices for cable services.
Congressional Summary of HR 1061
Connecting And Building Lines for Expedited Expansion Act or the CABLE Expansion Act
This bill modifies the requirements governing decisions about the placement, construction, or modification of a facility that provides cable service to subscribers using an easement or public right-of-way.
A franchise authority (i.e., a state or local entity that regulates certain aspects of cable operators) may not regulate the placement, construction, or modification of such facilities in a manner that effectively prohibits a cable operator from providing or enhancing its service under a franchise granted by the authority. Additionally, a franchise authority must approve or deny a complete request to place, construct, or modify a facility within specified time frames. The denial of a request must be in writing, supported by substantial evidence contained in a written record, and publicly released at the same time as the decision is made.
