Summary
House Bill 5123 and Senate Bill 719 would let cable providers call themselves streaming services and stop paying franchise and PEG fees — the money that funds CTN and flows into the city's general fund. A similar move by Wide Open West in Livonia dropped quarterly payments from about $36,000 to $2,000. The commission was urged to get the mayor and council engaged, since elected-official letters carry the most weight in Lansing.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed May 6, 2026.
Impact analysis
CTN relies on these fees for its budget, and they also feed the city's general fund — losing them could mean cuts to services or the general fund absorbing the hit.
Cable and streaming providers would keep millions in fees now paid to Michigan communities.
Ann Arbor residents would face reduced community media services or pressure on the general fund to cover the lost revenue.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Cable Communications Commission — May 6, 2026
Commissioner David Pittman asked for an update on House Bill 289 and related legislation that could affect public, educational and governmental access channels. Staff will add a legislative update to the next meeting's agenda.
Cable Communications Commission — February 4, 2026
House Bill 5123 and Senate Bill 719 would let cable providers call themselves streaming services and stop paying franchise and PEG fees — the money that funds CTN and flows into the city's general fund. A similar move by Wide Open West in Livonia dropped quarterly payments from about $36,000 to $2,000. The commission was urged to get the mayor and council engaged, since elected-official letters carry the most weight in Lansing.
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