House Bill Would Make it Easier for Telecom's to Offer Video Services

Washington, DC -- A new bill introduced by House Republicans would make it easier for telecom providers like Verizon and AT&T to offer Internet-based TV services, Reuters reported. The bill would let these companies obtain a national license, while allowing local governments to collect up to 5% of gross revenue. Recently, Verizon has been negotiating agreements with individual cities and counties to launch its FiOS TV service. "With new competitors preparing to enter the ongoing race between cable and satellite, the law needs to change," said Rep. Joe Barton (R-Texas), chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Along with Barton, sponsors of the bill include Reps. Fred Upton (R-Mich.) and Bobby Rush (D-Ill.). The bill is scheduled for a Committee hearing on Thursday.
http://today.reuters.com/news/newsArticle.aspx?type=technologyNews&storyID=2006-03-28T134335Z_01_N27323117_RTRUKOC_0_US-MEDIA-CONGRESS-VIDEO.xml