California Advocacy Groups Support Charter/Cox Merger in Latest Filings
Source: Communications Daily |By Philip Athey
Two consumer advocacy groups urged the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) last week to approve the $34.5 billion Charter/Cox merger after the companies agreed to settlements to ensure that the deal improves broadband connectivity and affordability in the state. The transaction, which would make Charter the largest ISP and cable provider in the nation, has already gotten sign-off from the FCC, New York and Connecticut, leaving CPUC approval as the last step before it can be completed.
However, an opening brief from The Utility Reform Network (TURN) -- the only one filed against the deal -- said Charter and Cox still haven't proven that the merger would benefit Californians. The group called for the CPUC to either deny the deal or create requirements that go beyond the settlements with Cal Advocates and CETF. “TURN contends that even if the Commission approves both settlements, they are not sufficient to meet the legal standard, and additional mitigation measures or conditions are necessary,” the filing said.
