The Video Competition Act, AB 207, is the best option for Wisconsin and for the University of Wisconsin. AB 207 will provide needed competition that will drive down costs and force video providers to offer cutting edge technology and better services.
During the debate, I believe the true purpose of this bill has been lost. Again and again it has been falsely reported that the Video Competition Act will deregulate"" the cable industry in Wisconsin. Once and for all, I want to say, the state of Wisconsin has never regulated the cable industry, so it would be impossible for this bill to ""deregulate"" cable. If anything, AB 207 strengthens regulation by providing consumer protection standards to the previously un-monitored satellite providers.
Early drafts of the Video Competition Act were not perfect, as is the case for most legislation. However, after numerous public hearings, three executive sessions in three separate legislative committees, I believe this bill is truly an example of the legislative process at work.
As a result of these proceedings we were able to strengthen this bill into its current form. We were able to add provisions which would provide for a three year extension of public access television (PEG) funding, after which time they will be required to negotiate a new deal that works best for them.
Also, AB 207 allows communities to pass ordinances related to placement of boxes and a cable company will still need approval from a municipality before they can begin work in public rights-of-way.
AB 207 not only maintains but strengthens consumer protection by giving authority to the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection, so that an individual that may have problems with their video provider will have recourse if and when their video provider is not able to remedy the problem appropriately.
Another important feature of the Video Competition Act that may be left out of many discussions regarding this bill is that it will allow one of Wisconsin's largest employing industries, telecommunications, an opportunity to quickly adapt to a changing market. This means the creation of new products, the installation of new technology and the need for new skilled workers.
For example, in anticipation of the passage of this legislation, nearly 300 good paying, union jobs were created in Milwaukee and the Fox Valley.
Additionally, indications are that more will be necessary as more cable providers increase their infrastructure in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin has a chance to foster growth and development in one of its largest industries. We must keep pace with other states that have already passed such legislation and seen the positive affects. As such, I will be urging my colleagues to pass this budget in its current form and I look forward to Gov. Doyle signing this needed piece of legislation.
State Sen. Jeff Plale is a Democrat from South Milwaukee, Wis. Please send responses to opinion@dailycardinal.com
