May 3, 2006 Tallahassee, FL -- Florida's House of Representatives today passed its House Bill 1199, entitled "The Consumer Choice Act of 2006," by a 95-21 vote. The bill is said to create a streamlined and simplified process for cable TV providers to receive franchises in cities and counties in Florida.
The bill also protects certain provisions for municipalities, including control over rights-of-way, authority over local cable providers, capacity for public, educational, and governmental access channels, and support for the same.
Responding to the bill's passage, Alan Ciamporcero, Verizon's Southeast region president, issued the following statement:
"Today's vote by the Florida House represents an overwhelming and resounding vote for consumer choice and cable competition in Florida. We are hopeful the Senate will now strike a corresponding chord for consumers by adopting this important measure that keeps Florida at the forefront of technology and progressive policies. Verizon commends Rep. Trey Treviesa and his colleagues for their leadership on this important consumer issue."