On most issues I tend, like most people, to be knee-jerk, anti-big utility, especially when it comes to cable TV. But even I can't get excited about Verizon's wanting to change the rules for cable TV approval from a local process to a state process.

Some argue that changing the rules will remove the obligation for cable providers to produce local access shows. (Like this?) Again, not excited.

The local access mandate was based on a situation where the cable company had a local monopoly and it was designed to compensate the community for the lack of competitive pressure to control prices. But with competition in the local market, cable TV becomes just another business and, as such, shouldn't have to do more than other local businesses when it comes to community investment. (And and as an added bonus, with the Verizon build-out, the consumer gets fiber to the home. That in itself is an investment in the community.)

So what would you rather have, lower prices, higher quality and more selection or Quincy and Reno.