HF 4978 Minnesota House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

Various provisions governing cable communications systems modified, and notice requirement for applying to become a cable communications franchise repealed.

This bill updates Minnesota's rules for cable communications systems by clarifying the definition of such systems and removing the requirement for municipalities to publish public notices when seeking new cable franchises. It directly affects local governments and cable providers by eliminating the previous obligation to publish newspaper notices and mail notifications to potential applicants before accepting franchise applications. The legislation also refines the information that must be included in a franchise application, such as details on channel capacity, service plans, and financing, while repealing older sections that governed the notice process. These changes aim to streamline the process for municipalities to award cable franchises without altering the substantive requirements for the applications themselves.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Apr 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Apr 16, 2026 Last action Apr 16, 2026
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Apr 16, 2026
Introduced
Introduction and first reading, referred to Commerce Finance and Policy
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Mike Freiberg
Mike Freiberg
DDemocratic-Farmer-Labor
MN
43B