The Facts About Video Franchise Reform
The movement to bring real competition to cable TV is sweeping the nation. Over a quarter million concerned consumers across the country have joined TV4US in demanding competition in the video market. Their voices are beginning to be heard. In the last two years, 20 states have passed video reform legislation, including California, Texas, Florida, Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin and, most recently, Louisiana and Tennessee.
New service providers are entering these markets in droves. For example, since video franchise reform was passed in Ohio in June 2007, 31 companies have applied for service agreements from the Ohio Department of Commerce.
How does this benefit consumers? Competition drives down prices, expands broadband access, contributes to local economic growth and increases programming options.
See the evidence:
Competition Cuts Costs
When cable providers compete, consumers begin to see cost savings almost immediately.
Competition Creates Jobs
Construction workers, linesmen, craftsmen and others are all needed to build a fiber optic network capable of providing video and other services.
Competition Expands Access
Allowing more players onto the playing field encourages cable and telecom providers to build out and expand their service to communities at a rapid pace.
Competition Leads to New Technology and Greater Programming Choices
In a competitive market, video service providers distinguish their services by offering new and better technology and more choices in programming.