Article in KC Star
The compromise would put cable and phone companies on the same footing, with neither required to obtain local franchise agreements. In addition to allowing cable companies to opt out of existing franchise agreements with local governments, the measure would impose a 5 percent tax on satellite TV services, which now are not assessed a franchise fee.
Griesheimer said this provision was added at the request of the cable operators and would probably be nixed in committee.
The compromise would put cable and phone companies on the same footing, with neither required to obtain local franchise agreements. In addition to allowing cable companies to opt out of existing franchise agreements with local governments, the measure would impose a 5 percent tax on satellite TV services, which now are not assessed a franchise fee.
Griesheimer said this provision was added at the request of the cable operators and would probably be nixed in committee.