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Comcast Pulling Plug on Public Access TV in Northwest Indiana
Produced by Michael Puente on Thursday, September 13, 2007
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Comcast customers in Northwest Indiana have only a couple more weeks to enjoy their favorite locally produced shows. Chicago Public Radio’s Michael Puente reports.
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By the end of the month, Comcast will close its public access studios in Merrillville, Hammond, Portage and Valparaiso.
That’s got dozens of local producers of shows, from gospel music to political discussions, crying foul.
But Comcast spokesman Rich Ruggiero says the company is just complying with a new state law.
RUGGIERO: Comcast never supported the legislation that took affect. We thought the local franchising model had a lot going for it. We had excellent relationships and worked directly with local communities.
Last year, the Indiana General Assembly shifted cable television franchise agreements from local cities and towns to the state.
If a city wants public access studios, it will have to foot the bill and Comcast will air it. Comcast will continue to air local public education and government channels.
The change makes Indiana one of two states to have state-wide cable franchise agreements.
I'm Michael Puente, Chicago Public Radio.
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