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CABLE Expansion Act
2/5/2024, 2:30 PM
Summary of Bill HR 3330
The bill proposes several measures to achieve this goal. One key provision is the establishment of a grant program that would provide funding to cable providers to extend their services to areas that currently lack access. This would help ensure that more Americans have access to the diverse programming and information available through cable television.
Additionally, the CABLE Expansion Act includes provisions aimed at promoting competition in the cable industry. The bill seeks to reduce barriers to entry for new cable providers, which could lead to lower prices and better service for consumers. By encouraging competition, the bill aims to improve the overall quality of cable services available to Americans. Overall, the CABLE Expansion Act is focused on expanding access to cable television services in underserved areas and promoting competition in the cable industry. If passed, this legislation could have a significant impact on the availability and affordability of cable services for many Americans.
Congressional Summary of HR 3330
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 equipment and related facilities that are used in or attached to cable communications systems.
Specifically, state or local governments, their instrumentalities, or franchise authorities (state or local entities that regulate certain aspects of cable operators) may not regulate the placement, construction, or modification of cable equipment or facilities in a manner that effectively prohibits a cable operator from providing or enhancing its service under a franchise granted by one of those entities.
Additionally, the bill requires those entities to approve or deny a complete request to place, construct, or modify cable equipment or facilities within specified time frames. Failure to respond to the request within the specified time frame deems it automatically approved. Further, the bill requires that any 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.
The bill also permits an entity to charge fees for considering requests provided that the fees are (1) nondiscriminatory, (2) publicly disclosed in advance, and (3) based on actual and direct costs.
The modifications concerning the time frames for decisions and the fees apply retroactively to requests that are submitted prior to the enactment of the bill but have not been approved or denied.
