BEYOND THE BELTWAY

Louisiana Advances Cable Franchising Rights Bill

Mon. Jun 16, 2008


Louisiana's Senate gave final legislative approval to a change in the way cable television providers win franchise rights in the state, the Associated Press reported.

The bill by Democratic state Sen. Ann Duplessis would take power over those rights away from local governments and give them to the state -- with the exception of the state's largest cities: New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport and others, and parishes such as Jefferson and East Baton Rouge.

The industry says the change will streamline the franchising process and encourage more companies to begin offering TV service. Their lobbyists contend it will help improve service, boost competition and lower consumer costs.

The measure has advanced steadily despite opposition from local governments and lawmakers skeptical that the change would help consumers.

In 2006, then-Gov. Kathleen Blanco, a Democrat, vetoed a similar bill.

Republican Gov. Bobby Jindal has taken no position on Duplessis' bill, which heads to his desk.