FCC Makes It Easier For Phone Companies To Offer TV

Yesterday, the Federal Communications Commission voted to make it easier for phone companies to get approval of local authorities to offer video in local markets by mandating a 90-day deadline for state and city authorities to review applications. This comes after pressure by the phone companies to get a federal ruling so they no longer have to lobby state by state.

AT&T is currently offering U-verse in selected test markets, a video-over-fiber optic service, and Verizon offers a competing service called FiOS. Prices are compatible with or slightly lower than cable or satellite and the channel selections are similar. Both also offer HDTV programming. Coverage areas are currently limited and that's why the telcos pushed so hard for this ruling.

Naturally, cable companies are fighting back to protect their turf and it's likely the ruling will be challenged but we support increased competition in the marketplace, since it offers more choice for consumers.