Legislation has been introduced in Congress, H.R. 1746, that seeks to address the challenges faced by public, educational and governmental access (PEG) TV channels.
The "Community Access Preservation Act", introduced on a bi-partisan basis by Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Steve LaTourette (R-OH), would allow PEG fees to be used for any PEG-related purpose, prevent cable operatros from charging for the transmission of channels, require the FCC to study the effect state video franchise laws have had on PEG channels, and require operators to provide the support required under state laws, or up to 2% of gross revenue, whichever is greater.
There are an estimated 5,000 PEG channels in the United States. Each works to serve their communities in a number of ways from televising city council meetings and hearings to school board meetings and other programming not aired on other cable or broadcast channels. The National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) has established a excellent webpage to assist with lobbying on this important issue.
Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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