Bill > H2907

This bill requires the Department of Telecommunications and Cable (DTC) to approve any merger, consolidation, or transfer of a cable television license or significant facilities before it can take effect, ensuring that such changes are in the public interest. Specifically, it amends Chapter 166A of the General Laws by adding a new section that mandates DTC approval for any transfer, renewal, or amendment of a cable license, or any transfer of control of a license or substantial part of a cable system, defining a merger or consolidation of cable companies as a transfer of a license. Applicants must submit detailed information to the DTC, which will hold a public hearing and approve the application unless it finds it would violate the public interest, or may approve it with specific conditions. If an application is denied, the DTC must provide written reasons. This bill also makes a minor conforming change to Chapter 12 of the General Laws to include license transfers in a list of matters involving the Attorney General.