Texas House Bill HB2479

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/5/25

Caption

Relating to entities that provide cable services or video services.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 2479 could have significant repercussions on the telecommunications landscape in Texas. By explicitly excluding streaming content from the definition of 'cable service,' the bill may reduce the regulatory burden on internet service providers (ISPs) that offer streaming options. This could allow for more competitive pricing and flexibility in how video services are delivered to consumers. Moreover, it positions traditional cable companies in a more advantageous regulatory environment, potentially allowing them to innovate their service offerings without the competition from internet-based services that are now excluded from the definition.

Summary

House Bill 2479 aims to amend certain definitions related to entities providing cable and video services within Texas. Specifically, it updates the definitions of 'cable service' and 'video service' as outlined in the Texas Utilities Code. This bill clarifies that cable service does not include any video programming accessed via internet-based platforms, such as streaming. The intent behind this change is to delineate the scope of services that fall under the regulatory umbrella of traditional cable providers versus those that offer streaming services online.

Contention

While the bill aims to clarify the services that fall under state regulation, it may also spark contention regarding the potential for unequal treatment between cable providers and streaming services. Critics might argue that this change could further entrench the power of established cable companies, limiting consumer options and potentially leading to higher prices for consumers who prefer traditional cable offerings. Furthermore, there may be concerns about public access to diverse content and the implications for local content distribution, which could be adversely affected by the regulatory distinctions introduced by this bill.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Utilities Code

• Chapter 66. State-issued Cable And Video Franchise
  • Section: 002