FCC Proposes Action on Cable Franchise 'Refusals' Despite Doubts About Agency's Statutory Authority

摘要

Although the FCC has initiated a rulemaking proceeding into possible obstacles to broadband video competition posed by local franchising authorities, two of the four Commissioners have raised doubts about the need and legal authority for FCC intervention into the franchising process — doubts that were echoed and amplified by local government interests and some industry analysts. The Commission's action was greeted by praise from the Bells and incumbent telcos, which have argued the franchising process is too lengthy, and even the cable industry pronounced itself pleased that the rulemaking proposal would apply to incumbent cable operators as well as new market entrants.