STATEMENT OF 
COMMISSIONER DEBORAH TAYLOR TATE
Re: Leased Commercial Access; Development of Competition and Diversity in Video Programming 
Distribution and Carriage (MB Docket No. 07-42)
Allowing programmers to lease time on cable channels is yet another way the FCC encourages 
program diversity and the dissemination of a variety of viewpoints.  It also allows local programmers to 
have access to cable’s audience for the promotion of products and services, as well as airing of local 
community events.  We appreciate the cooperation of cable operators in making these channels available.
In light of the concerns that have been raised with regard to the prices charged by cable for the 
use of these channels, I believe we should seek comment on whether our maximum allowable rate should 
be changed from the average implicit fee to the marginal implicit fee.  Just as we did in 1996, when we 
initially lowered the maximum allowable rate for carriage, we should ask that interested parties analyze 
the advantages and disadvantages of this new rate formula.  We should also seek input on whether 
lowering the maximum allowable rate will increase the number of leased access programmers on cable’s 
systems.
Because we fail to seek comment on these important changes, I respectfully dissent.