A B O U T T H EC O N F E R E N C E

Local governments have seen an explosion of telecommunications franchise activities as new carriers enter local markets. Some of the new telecommunications carriers are existing cable television operators who are expanding their operations into Internet access via cable modems and voice-over-cable services. Emerging competi-tion has created new issues for local governments attempting to regulate access to rights-of-way and to generate revenues from franchise fees. There is a growing recognition that infrastructure for advanced services will be vital for economic growth. And there is a new constraint in the form of federal prohibitions on local policies favoring one competitor over another. The local governments, carriers, and other participants in franchise disputes that work out the best solutions to these new problems will see their communities flourish in the Information Age. This conference will provide tools for finding the best solutions.

Program Co-Chairs: Mark Calhoun, Esq. and Clarence A. West, Esq.

Credits: Texas CLE Credits applied for