Weekly Hearings on AT&T Bill Will Be Webcast

The hottest bill in the Tennessee General Assembly, the so-called “AT&T” bill, will be up for public hearing on the Internet when the House Commerce Committee meets this morning.

Legislators have been hesitant to support the bill. It allows AT&T – or any other communications company – to provide cable service in Tennessee without negotiating franchise fees with each local government. For that reason, the municipal league has fiercely opposed the measure.

One of the bill’s sponsors – Representative Steve McDaniel of Parkers Crossroads – says consumers have been in the dark on the issue.

“But I’m hoping that these public hearings will allow us to hear all sides of the story, and then we’ll see where the consumers come down on the issue.”

AT&T officials argue that the new statewide franchising rights would increase competition and drive down cable prices. Current cable providers say the bill would allow AT&T to “cherry pick” the state and provide service only where its most profitable.

The commerce committee hearings are expected to be webcast on Tuesday mornings for several weeks.

This morning’s meeting will begin at 9:15. Click here to tune in. Then select “House” from the menu on the left. Click on the video icon beside “Commerce.”