Communications, Broadband and New Media E-lert: New FCC Third Report and Order Regarding Cable Franchise Fees

On September 26, 2019, the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Third Report and Order on cable franchise fees goes into effect. The Order addresses in-kind services provided by cable operators pursuant to franchise agreements or state statutes, including free cable service to government buildings, schools and libraries, public educational and government access channels, and institutional networks. The Order provides that such in-kind services are franchise fees under the federal Cable Act and may be prohibited. The Order preempts inconsistent provisions of local codes, franchise agreements (in states that still allow local franchise agreements) and state statutes.

This Order may affect the services provided by cable operators to your municipality or county pursuant to Florida law, including carriage of government meetings on the cable system. There are a number of local governments and organizations around the country that anticipate appealing the FCC Order.

Gary Resnick
GrayRobinson, P.A.
401 East Las Olas Blvd.
Suite 1000
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
P: 954.761.8111
F: 954.761.8112

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