H.R. 5170: Cable Access for Broadband and Local Economic Leadership Act

This bill, titled the "Cable Access for Broadband and Local Economic Leadership Act," proposes amendments to the Communications Act of 1934, specifically concerning the process by which requests for cable franchises are handled by local franchising authorities.

Key Provisions

• Franchise Request Approval Timeline: Local franchising authorities are required to make a decision to approve or deny a complete request for a franchise within 120 days of receiving it.
• Deemed Approval: If the authority does not make a decision within the specified 120 days, the request is automatically considered granted the following day.
• No Delays Allowed: The timeline for decisions cannot be extended or delayed by any moratorium or similar actions imposed by the authority.
• Denial Decisions Must Be Documented: If a request is denied, the authority must provide a written decision that includes substantial evidence, which must be publicly released and given to the requesting party on the same day.
• Clear Definition of 'Complete Request': A request is deemed complete if the requesting party has made the first required procedural step and has not been informed within 30 days that additional information is needed.
• Various Submission Methods Defined: The bill establishes how the date of submission is determined, depending on whether the request is made electronically, in person, or through other means.

Impact of the Bill

The bill seeks to enhance the efficiency of the franchising process for cable access related to broadband services. By establishing clear timelines and requirements for decision-making, it aims to facilitate faster deployment of broadband services in local areas, which could potentially contribute to economic growth and competition in the market.

Relevant Companies

• CMCSA - Comcast Corporation: As a major cable service provider, this legislation could streamline Comcast's processes for obtaining new franchises and potentially increase their ability to expand broadband service provision.
• T - AT&T Inc.: This telecommunications company might benefit from a quicker franchise approval process, enabling faster deployment of their broadband services in new areas.
• VZ - Verizon Communications Inc.: Similar to Comcast and AT&T, Verizon could see an easier route to obtain necessary franchises for broadband expansion, improving service delivery to consumers.