Cable Differs on Possible Ending of Attributable Interests Rule

Cable interests didn't agree about possibly eliminating the rule that cable operators maintain records in online inspection files about attributable interests in video programming services, in docket 20-35 comments posted this week. An NPRM on axing or modifying the rule was approved at commissioners' March 31 meeting (see 2002280044). Verizon said Tuesday there's "simply no basis" for requiring cable operators to keep attributable interest records in their public inspection files because the agency or local franchise authorities can just request records from operators, and responding to those requests is less burdensome for operators. NCTA called the rule "regulatory underbrush [that] serves no meaningful purpose." ACA Connects said vertical integration information could be useful in bringing a program access complaint but urged the FCC to find "a less burdensome" means for making it available. It suggested such possibilities as eliminating the part of the rule requiring reporting carriage of a particular system, or revising rules to require cable operators post the information only once and then make updates when it changes.