from: Tampa Bay 10 [1]

Opposition surfaces to new standard for cable service

TALLAHASSEE, Florida (AP) — Two state lawmakers say Floridians deserve more choices and lower prices for their cable television.

They unveiled legislation today requiring companies to get cable franchise agreements from the state instead of from local governments.

The plan would help telephone companies compete for cable television business.

Representative Trey Traviesa envisions a system where consumers could buy their cable, Internet and phone services all from one company.

Traviesa says the proposal would boost competition and customers would benefit.

Senator Mike Bennett accuses local governments of — as he calls it — extorting — as much as they can from video providers through cable franchise agreements.

Opponents have argued local governments are better able to negotiate contracts with cable companies because local elected officials have a better understanding of their communities' needs.