Cable Access for Broadband and Local Economic Leadership Act; CABLE Leadership Act
Summary
The Cable Access for Broadband and Local Economic Leadership Act (CABLE Leadership Act) aims to amend the Communications Act of 1934. It focuses on preserving cable franchising authority by setting a 120-day deadline for franchising authorities to approve or deny franchise requests. Failure to meet this deadline results in the request being automatically granted.
Expected Effects
This bill could streamline the process for cable companies to obtain franchises. It also limits the ability of local authorities to delay or obstruct new franchise applications. This could lead to faster broadband deployment.
Potential Benefits
- Faster Broadband Deployment: Streamlined approval processes can accelerate the expansion of broadband infrastructure.
- Increased Competition: Easier franchise acquisition may encourage new cable providers to enter the market.
- Reduced Bureaucracy: The 120-day deadline limits delays caused by local franchising authorities.
- Transparency: The requirement for written decisions and public release enhances transparency in the franchising process.
- Economic Growth: Improved broadband access can stimulate economic activity and job creation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced Local Control: Limits the ability of local authorities to thoroughly vet franchise requests.
- Potential for Unfavorable Franchises: The deemed grant provision could result in franchises being granted without proper scrutiny.
- Limited Negotiation Power: The fixed timeframe may reduce the bargaining power of local communities in franchise negotiations.
- Possible Environmental Concerns: Expedited approvals could lead to insufficient environmental impact assessments.
- Strain on Local Resources: Local authorities may struggle to meet the 120-day deadline with existing resources.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating interstate communications. It does not seem to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations. The balance between federal regulation and local control is a matter of policy discretion within constitutional bounds.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).