Perceived impact of the cable policy act of 1984

Abstract

The Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984 was the result of negotiations between local governments and the cable television industry. Not all affected parties agreed the Act would benefit them. The purpose of this survey of local regulators and cable companies was to assess perceptions of current relationships and the perceived impact of the Act. The results indicated that those from the cable industry most satisfied with the status quo were deregulated franchises who felt the new law would benefit them. Local regulators with franchises requiring public hearings prior to changes felt the new law would have negative effects.