Minutes for SB547 - Committee on Federal and State Affairs

Short Title

Exempting broadcast satellite service and providers of streaming content from the video competition act and providing requirements relating to audits of video service provider franchise fees.

Minutes Content for Mon, Mar 14, 2022

The Chairman opened the hearing on the bill and called upon Nick Myers for a Revisor review of the bill.

(Attachment 1)

The Chairman called for testimony on the bill.

Proponent Damon Stewart emphasized that the bill is intended to clarify franchise fee statutes. Mr. Stewart declared that there is no logical reason for streaming providers to be required to pay franchise fees.

(Attachment 2)

Opponent Erik Sartorius questioned the need for the bill and called for a more collaborative effort to make such a change in statute of this magnitude.

(Attachment 3)

Opponent John Federico pointed out a ripple effect that he predicted the bill would cause and called for more of a consumer focus and parity in tax treatment among all of the providers. Mr. Federico supported the request for a comprehensive discussion involving all of the stakeholders that might be effected by such changes. Mr. Federico reminded the committee that it has been 10 to 15 years since this was thoroughly explored.

(Attachment 4)

Opponent Megan Bottenberg cited that no state has yet adopted the policy called for in the bill. Ms. Bottenberg also supported a more comprehensive collaborative effort with stakeholders.

(Attachment 5)

Opponent Jason Pettit called for a complete discussion of the issue.

(Attachment 6)

Committee questions and comments ensued.

Written-Only Opponent:

Paula Schwach, City of Westwood KS

(Attachment 7)

Linda Morse, City Manhattan KS

(Attachment 8)

Michael Koss, City of Overland Park KS

(Attachment 9)

The Chairman requested more information regarding franchise fees from the research department.