The Cable TV Advisory Council of Eastern Connecticut is a legally created entity of the State of Connecticut. Its statutory existence is documented in the By-Laws of the Advisory Council. It exists to carry forth the following missions with the Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (Certificate of Cable Franchise Authority) license holder (Breezeline) and the Designated Community Access Provider (SEC-TV).
The Advisory Council charge is to carry forth the work set in Connecticut law as an extension of the PURA; to be an active partner supporting the designated Community Access Provider programming and operations; and be the Advisory agent for Community Interests in communications with the Cable company about policies, products, & services.
This mission summary is drawn directly from the body of Connecticut law, enforced by the Executive Branch of Connecticut State government through the Department of Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) and its regulations.
The Cable Advisory Council Mission and authority details are specifically the following:
1. To promote and protect a secure future for meaningful Community Access television programming created by Community based groups of Producers. 16-331a (b)
2. To advise PURA on the qualifications of a third party non-profit organizations which may petition to become a Designated Community Access Provider (CAP). 16-331a (c.1)
3. To petition for an official hearing to review the Programming and Operations of the existing Designated Community Access Provider (CAP). 16-331a (c 8)
4. To advise the Designated Community Access Provider (CAP) on the suitability of adult programming. 16-331a(g).
5. To request an independent audit of the Designated Community Access provider operations, programming, and technical standards. 16-331a (h).
6. To meet with official representatives of the Cable company – the Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (Certificate of Cable Franchise Authority) license holder at least twice per year. 16-333t (a).
7. To offer advisory opinion and/or request advice on any issues involving the Cable company’s products and services. 16-331
8. To serve in any contested case involving the Cable company– the Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (Certificate of Cable Franchise Authority) license holder, and the PURA with intervenor status. 16-331t (d).
9. To elect one representative to serve on the State-Wide Video Advisory Council 16-331i.
Statutes and Regulations
Connecticut State Statutes
- Chapter 289 16-330 to 16-333p Community Antenna Television Systems and Competitive Video Service Providers
PURA Regulations
- 16-331a-1 to 13 Community Access Support
- 16-333-1 to 54 Community Antenna Television
- 16-333b-1 Waiver of Time Requirement for Underground Installation of CATV Service Lines
- 16-333e-1 to 3 Viewing Time Reliability Standards and Schedules for Credits or Refunds for CATV Service
- 16-333f-1 to 3 Planned Programming Change and Rate Change Notification
- 16-333i-1 Substandard CATV Service