Access Humboldt opposes FFC proposal to cut local funding

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EUREKA, CA. (KIEM)- The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is proposing a restriction on local governments’ role in community access T.V. channels. Our Dru Miller has the story

Nationally, thousands of comments have already been filed in this FCC proceeding and right now till December 14th the FCC will be accepting public comment on what’s being proposed.

PRESS RELEASE PROVIDED BY ACCESS HUMBOLDT:

Access Humboldt Files Comments Opposing FCC Proposal to Cut Local Funding

A Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposal to restrict local governments’ role in cable TV regulation includes a tentative conclusion that would allow cable TV operators like Suddenlink (Altice) to reduce their payments to Humboldt County and Cities by the value that Suddenlink itself places on “in-kind” requirements, like community access TV channels, network connections, live transmission services for County Courthouse and City Halls, schools, libraries and other community anchors, along with other support that is currently required in local cable franchise agreements.

Nationally, thousands of Comments have already been filed in this FCC proceeding [MB Docket No. 05-311] – including Access Humboldt’s – objecting to the proposal, and pointing out the harm this would cause to local non-commercial access media that supports public health and safety, education, economic development, culture and arts, and informed civic engagement.

“The FCC’s proposal of gifting commercial cable operators with reduced obligations would amount to corporate welfare for absentee owners at the direct expense of our local community,” said Sean Taketa McLaughlin, executive director. Adding, “We strongly oppose any FCC action that would reduce or diminish the resources available in our community to support local voices through non-commercial community-based media.”

Access Humboldt’s formal Comments are available online here: https://bit.ly/2DHdflq

The next step in the FCC proceeding is open for Reply Comments that afford the public and all interested parties to share their views with the FCC by December 14, 2018. Access Humboldt will be seeking letters from local jurisdictions and agencies, community-based organizations, local businesses and the general public. Stay tuned to Access Humboldt for updates.

 

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