Support Consumer Choice!

Pennsylvania is taking a big step forward on the road to universal high speed internet access. The Consumer Choice Cable Franchising and High-speed Broadband Promotion Act (HB 1490) - introduced by Majority Policy Chairman Todd A. Eachus last July - is moving along! The House Consumer Affairs Committee will be holding a public hearing on the bill at the Capitol in Harrisburg, PA on Thursday, February 7.

This bill is a comprehensive and tailored approach to meet the diverse needs of Pennsylvania's consumers, including residents, businesses, education and public facilities, emergency responders, municipalities and workers, and assures reliable, quality service standards through independent advocates.

The time is now. HB 1490 is the bill legislators must support if they want Pennsylvania to remain competitive. Many states have already passed similar legislation to facilitate job growth, business advancement, and individual achievement through access to information and markets.

Please fill out the form at the right to tell your Representative in the Pennsylvania House to support this important legislation.

Talking Points

Some benefits of HB 1490 provisions:

1. Protects consumers: There's currently no government advocate for consumers. No state agency has oversight or sets service quality standards for cable services like Internet, VoIP (telephone), or video programming. This bill places that authority with the Public Utility Commission and allows for consumer advocacy from the PA Consumer Advocate and the Small Business Advocate to ens ure universal access, non-discrimination and service provider choice.

2. Speed matters: High-speed Internet access is rapidly becoming a necessity for full participation in the 21st century global economy. This bill sets minimum standards for high-speed Internet access and establishes a procedure for "mapping," which enables every area to know when they can expect service to be deployed and available in their area.

3. Protects municipalities: Public right-of-ways are protected and kept in local control. The definition of gross revenues is expanded to ensure adequate franchise fees for the municipalities. Allows the municipalities to continue or establish their own telecommunications services.

4. Community commitment: Establishes strong commitments for services to public institutions. Police, fire departments, public schools and to her buildings used for municipal purposes would be equipped with basic service and high-speed Internet without charge.

Subject:

Dear [ Decision Maker ],

(Edit Letter Below)

I am writing to ask you to support the Consumer Choice Cable Franchising and High Speed Broadband Promotion Act (HB1490), introduced by House Majority Policy Chairman Todd Eachus. This important legislation would protect consumers and strengthen the economy for all Pennsylvanians.

The Commonwealth needs a comprehensive telecommunications bill to correct the cumbersome cable franchising process, foster competition, provide essential public services, and expand broadband access to every corner of Pennsylvania. HB1490 would accomplish each of these goals with these key provisions:

* Allows statewide cable franchising, replacing the current system in which cable providers must negotiate deals with each of Pennsylvania's 2,500 municipalities.

* Sets cable infrastructure build-out requirements so no communities get left behind.

* Redefines franchise fees so they more accurately reflect the value of cable services to local governments.

* Sets standards for cable companies to provide access to public institutions like schools and hospitals.

* Provides real oversight of the cable industry by the Public Utility Commission.

Pennsylvania now has an opportunity to lead the nation in crafting a smart, fair cable policy that benefits the economy and consumers. Now we need your support in passing this crucial legislation. Co-sponsor the Consumer Choice Cable Franchising and High Speed Broadband Promotion Act, and help ensure a bright, prosperous future for the Commonwealth.

Thank you.

Thank You,

[Your name]
[Your address]

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