Cable Advisory Committees

A Cable Advisory Committee (CAC), appointed by the municipal issuing authority, advises the municipality on the cable franchising process.

Definition of Cable Advisory Committee

Under Massachusetts regulations, an Issuing Authority (IA), such as the mayor of a city or the board of selectmen of a town, may appoint a Cable Advisory Committee (CAC) to advise the IA throughout the licensing process.  In many instances, the CAC remains active throughout the term of the license. Currently, there are over 280 CACs in the Commonwealth. The composition and number of members of the CAC is determined by the IA.

The IA may, at its discretion, define the role and responsibilities of the CAC to the extent permitted under G.L. c. 166A.  While an IA may delegate to a CAC the authority to negotiate a license agreement, an IA may not delegate authority to execute such an agreement.

CACs are considered "governmental bodies" within the purview of the Massachusetts Conflict of Interest Law, G.L. c. 268A.

Recognizing that CACs fulfill an important and valuable link between the IA, the licensee, and the residents of the community, the Department of Telecommunications and Cable ("Department") seeks to build positive professional relationships with the CACs. The Department's staff works closely with local committees to educate them on the licensing process and improve information-sharing.

The Department's program includes an informational presentation available to communities.  Please contact the Department to schedule a presentation or to discuss any cable licensing matter.

Responsibilities of a Cable Advisory Committees

CAC responsibilities vary according to the status of the license and the objectives of the IA. The following list includes some typical responsibilities assigned to CACs in the Commonwealth:

  • Inform and educate the public about cable television service;
  • Assess the cable needs of the community and recommend policy changes;
  • Conduct regular meetings with cable company representatives to discuss matters of mutual interest;
  • Report to the IA on company compliance with the license;
  • Supervise the cable operator's response to complaints;
  • Respond to residents' questions regarding the cable television system; and
  • Keep abreast of community programming issues.

Contact   for Cable Advisory Committees

Phone

If you have Diversity, Affirmative Action or Equal Employment Opportunity questions or need a Reasonable Accommodation, please contact Diversity Officer/ADA Coordinator Andrea Nixon.

Open from 9 a.m.–5 p.m., M-F

Fax

(617) 988-8288

Address

1000 Washington Street, Suite 600, Boston, MA 02118

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