* Warning: This is an unofficial, introductory copy of the bill.
The official copy considered by the City Council is the first reader copy.
Introductory*
City of Baltimore
Council Bill R
(Resolution)
Introduced by: Councilmember Sneed
A Resolution Entitled
A Council Resolution concerning
title
Diversity of Programming
For the purpose of urging Comcast to comply with its franchise obligation to maximize the diversity of programming over the Comcast System.
body
Recitals
Whereas, In granting a franchise to provide cable services in the City of Baltimore, an enumerated principle objective was to “maximize the diversity of programming over the Comcast System. . .”;
Whereas, The franchise agreement requires Comcast to “not discriminate among Subscribers with respect to fees, charges, deposits, and other terms and conditions affecting any Service. . .”;
Whereas, Disputes between programmers and video distribution platforms are becoming prolific, creating uncertainty in consumer access and the bargained value of long-term consumer commitments;
Whereas, The City of Baltimore and its residents continue to highly value a robust media landscape, inclusive of diverse voices and perspectives;
Whereas, The City of Baltimore is concerned about Comcast’s recent behavior regarding consumers, exemplified by actions taken against the company by the FCC, the National Advertising Reviewing Board, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Washington, and specifically about the company’s behavior as it relates to diversity, including Comcast’s inadequate fulfillment of the NBCUniversal diversity conditions;
Whereas, According to recent press ...
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