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FCC Sets Timeline, Seeks Comments on Comcast-TWC Merger, Comcast-Charter Deals

Jul 11, 2014  •  Post A Comment

The Federal Communications Commission has set the dates for comments from the public and the media industry on Comcast’s proposed purchase of Time Warner Cable and Comcast's trade of some cable systems with Charter Communications.

The Los Angeles Times reports that the agency has set its 180-day merger clock to review and either approve or deny the Comcast deals. Comments and petitions are due Aug. 25, and Comcast will have until Sept. 23 to respond, the story notes. Replies to Comcast’s responses are due Oct. 8.

“Presuming the FCC doesn't have to delay its process for any reason, that would mean it would issue its verdict in January 2015. The Department of Justice is also reviewing the Comcast-Time Warner Cable sale,” the story notes.

The report adds: “Many media watchdog groups and consumer activists have already voiced their intent to strongly oppose Comcast's deals. Earlier this week, satellite broadcaster Dish Network told the FCC that it should block Comcast from buying Time Warner Cable because the acquisition would give the cable giant too much power in the video and broadband marketplace. Netflix has also expressed concern about Comcast's plans.”

Comcast has argued that the deal will bring benefits to consumers, and won’t stifle competition.

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