Don't touch that television dial

DON'T TOUCH THAT TELEVISION DIAL
[SOURCE: Beloit Daily News, AUTHOR: Rep Tammy Baldwin (D-WI)]
[Commentary] A look at Communications Opportunity, Promotion, and Enhancement Act of 2006 (COPE HR 5252). Rep Baldwin writes: "Competition in the video delivery business? I'm all for it. Lower prices for the consumer? I'm all for that. But the devil, once again, is in the details. While I support the “ends” of the COPE bill (increased competition and lower prices), I don't support the “means” and voted against the bill." Why? The bill does not contain adequate local controls or consumer protections nor does it promise “net neutrality” or aspire to universal service, assuring that every American has a chance in the digital age. The legislation also weakens funding support for local public, educational, and governmental (PEG) channels. Rep Baldwin concludes: "Do we need to update our federal telecommunications policy to respond to ever-changing technology and consumer demand? Absolutely. But not at the expense of consumer protections, municipal budgets, and the common good. The COPE bill is yet another example of the Republican majority favoring well-connected, special interests over average Americans."
http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2006/07/13/editorials/edit02.txt