Save Access

from: USA Today

Lawmaker criticizes FCC for cable rules

WASHINGTON (AP) — The chairman of a House panel that oversees the Federal Communications Commission accused the FCC of overstepping its authority with rules meant to encourage cable TV rivals.

Rep. John Dingell, D-Mich., who heads the House Commerce Committee, said at a subcommittee meeting Wednesday that he supports cable competition and lower prices, but that the FCC "must work entirely within the existing laws."

The FCC voted 3-2 on Dec. 20 to require local governments to speed up the video franchise process for new cable entrants, cap fees and ease rules on building systems that reach every home.

FCC Chairman Kevin Martin, who appeared with his four fellow commissioners, has defended the order, saying the law allows the FCC to step in when it finds local communities erected unreasonable barriers to competition.

Foes of the FCC's action, who plan an appeal, have called it a federalization of the process that will cut local oversight and dollars for public channels and let companies serve only rich neighborhoods.

Supporters of the change have cited dozens of instances in which local governments have made unreasonable demands, effectively blocking new competitors.

Copyright 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.