Governor Ready to Sign Cable Bill
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Governor Ready to Sign Cable Bill

Date: March 15, 2007
By: Micah Wiener
State Capitol Bureau
Links: SB 284

 Intro: The Governor pledges to sign legislation changing the laws regarding cable regulation.  Micah Wiener has more from the Capitol.

RunTime:
OutCue: SOC

The bill would give telecommunication companies the ability to sign state-wide franchise agreements and would give current providers the ability to terminate contracts with local municipalities.

The cable industry says the law gives consumers more options, while opponents argue that service providers are given too much power, and consumers are left without support.

Republican Senator John Griesheimer is the bill's sponsor, and he is excited about job opportunities the law will provide for Missourians.

Actuality:  GRIES.WAV

Run Time: 00:11

Description: 

After the Governor signs the bill, the new rules will take affect in late August.



Intro: The Governor's pledge to sign a bill changing the laws regarding cable service has drawn the skepticism of a prominent Missouri Democrat.  Micah Wiener has more from Jefferson City.
 
The bill would give telecommunication companies the ability to sign state-wide franchise agreements and it would also allow providers to terminate their current municipal agreements.
 
The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Matt Blunt, who issued a statement praising the legislation.
 
Democratic Leader Jeff Harris has been critical of the bill.
 
The Representative from Columbia was one of only four House members to vote against the legislation.
Actuality:  JHATT2.WAV
Run Time: 00:15
Description: 

Proponents of the law say that it gives consumers more choices and also creates new jobs for the state. 
 
From the Capitol, I'm Micah Wiener