Consumer Law at Your Fingertips

Telemarketing and Cable TV

Cable TV Rate Regulation

• The Federal Communications Commission regulates cable TV rates and business practices to some degree, especially where no effective competition exists. But most price and service decisions are left to the market.

• Local municipalities may regulate cable TV rates and business practices to some degree, especially where no effective competition exists. There is no state regulation of cable TV rates, and local regulation is subject to limits prescribed by federal law. Most price and service decisions are left to the market. For more information, check with your municipality.

• Telephone technology is merging with cable TV and computer technology to create the so-called “information superhighway.” The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) may regulate telephone rates charged by companies that own and operate telephone lines. See Telecommunications Rate Regulation.

• Recent law changes have eliminated many obstacles to competition between telephone and cable service providers. “Wireless” communication technology, including “satellite cable” TV and cellular telephones, has added yet another dimension to this fast-changing market.