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2002 Conference TUESDAY, MAY 7
An overview of federal and state issues related to telecom and cable regulation. State issues to be discussed include the deployment of broadband technology and recent PUC rulemaking decisions. Federal matters to be addressed include the forthcoming classification of cable modem service and the impact of recent decisions in the Pasadena and Gulf Power cases. "The Battle About Broadband and Local Rights-of-Way" (Tillman L. Lay) "Municipalities and Telecommunications Providers Under Chapter 283 Of The Local Government Code (HB 1777)" (Clarence A. West) "Current Issues at the Public Utility Commission of Texas" (Don Ballard) "Municipal ROW Fees for Telecom Providers HB 1777: Year Two" (Hayden Childs) "Telecommunications Issues And The 78th Texas Legislature" (Monte Akers)
Emergency communications are of vital assistance to public safety. This panel will address local government¹s use of telecom and cable in a natural disaster or terrorist attack. Topics discussed will include emergency cable override systems, the role of government in a crisis situation, federal funding for expanded emergency communications, and the use of PEG channels as a tool for both emergency communication and education.
An in-depth look at the FCC’s recent classification of cable modem as an information service. This session will focus on ramifications of and challenges to the FCC’s decision. "Cable Modem Overview" (Tillman L. Lay) "Cable Modem Presentation" (Mitsuko R. Herrera)
Cable Franchising Session Discussion on regulating rates and establishing and enforcing customer service standards. PEG Programming Session Advice on starting public access channels, how to launch text channels, establishing video programming policies, designing an internet website, role of local government in public access, and creating streaming audio and video. "Website Design and Streaming Media Implementation" (Cheryl Thompson) Round Table Discussion A chance for cable operators and franchising authorities to sit down and discuss current issues in the industry.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 8
This panel will examine the status of competition now that cable has opened up to overbuilders and HB 1777 has expanded telecom. Topics include the future of wireless technologies, effective competition in cable, and the promise of future technologies.
This session will address the permissible scope of municipal regulation including instituting requirements that telecom providers submit plans, promoting joint trenching, mapping infrastructure, and the use of permitting as a right-of-way management tool. "Discussion of Implemented and Proposed Changes to ROW Management"
Cable Franchise Transfers Renewals Comcast / AT&T Merger Programming Round Table An opportunity to discuss issues and concerns regarding PEG programming
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