Brodsky's bill would cut to the chase, authorizing state officials to sign a statewide franchise for cable TV service. In areas where the fiberoptic lines have been laid, Verizon could jump into the cable market almost overnight.
But the cable industry, desperate to keep its captive audience, is using all of its considerable influence in Albany to block reform. Unless Gov. Spitzer intervenes, consumers could well lose this battle - and be forced to keep paying through the nose for lousy service.
The bill enjoys strong support from the telephone workers union - eager to preserve 25,000 jobs at Verizon - as well as the major consumer groups.
But it's running into stiff resistance. The cable companies are squawking that the bill is unfair, since they had to negotiate dozens upon dozens of franchises and Verizon won't have to - neglecting to mention that they are free to offer Internet-based phone service that piggybacks on Verizon's network. Meanwhile, Mayor Bloomberg and other local officials are reluctant to transfer their franchising authority to the state. Even Verizon is objecting to Brodsky's bill because of strings he has attached.
While Albany bickers, New York consumers continue to get shafted. Spitzer must break the logjam and forge a compromise that makes the bill workable for both Verizon and local officials.
