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Video Access Alliance Applauds House Vote on Cable Reform
Reform will bring major benefits for consumers, minorities and independent producers
June 9, 2006
TALLAHASEE, FL. - The Video Access Alliance (VAA), a non-profit group dedicated to advocating for independent, emerging and minority networks, announced their approval of today's House vote on the Communications Opportunity, Promotion and Enhancement Act (COPE). The VAA has been a strong supporter of COPE, citing its many benefits for consumers in general but particularly for minorities.
"COPE will make it easier for new companies to enter cable markets," said Video Access Alliance chairperson Julia Johnson. "New entrants will promote healthy competition in the market, leading to lower prices, improved customer service and new diverse programming."
As competition expands, the opportunities for minority artists, producers and entrepreneurs will multiply. This legislation will not only make video services more affordable for consumers, it will also give them a much more diverse array of programming to choose from and give the minority viewpoint a greater voice. In short, everyone wins.
Johnson also extended special thanks to COPE sponsor House Commerce Committee Chairman Joe Barton, (R-TX) and co-sponsor Representative Bobby Rush (D-IL.)
"This legislation has been the object of an intensive lobbying effort by incumbent cable companies," said Johnson, "and might not have moved forward without the leadership of Congressmen Barton and Rush. Consumers everywhere owe them a vote of thanks."
