Leased Commercial Access; Modernization of Media Regulation Initiative
In this document, the Commission adopts a tier-based leased access rate calculation as part of its Modernization of Media Regulation Initiative. The Commission finds that a simplified tier- specific rate calculation best reflects regulatory changes that have occurred in the last 20 years and will more accurately approximate the value of a particular channel, while alleviating burdens on cable operators. The Commission also finds that, although changes in the marketplace cast substantial doubt on the constitutionality of mandatory leased access, leased access requirements are contained in a specific statutory mandate from Congress, so the Commission does not eliminate its leased access rules.