Western-Star.com

COLUMBUS — Gov. Ted Strickland is expected to sign legislation that would make it easier for phone companies and other competitors to break into Ohio's cable television market, Strickland spokesman Keith Dailey said Tuesday.

The bill now goes to Strickland after the Senate voted 33-0 to agree with changes the House made to the legislation first passed by the Senate.

Supporters are eager for the bill to take effect, said Sen. Jeff Jacobson, R-Butler Twp., the sponsor.

"Who am I to stand in their way?" Jacobson said.

Strickland believes the legislation "will result in significant investment in Ohio" and expand consumer choice while also protecting consumers and local governments, said Dailey.

It would permit companies that want to enter the market to negotiate a single contract with the state instead of separate contracts with local governments, as they now are required to do.

It includes requirements for providing access in areas companies want to serve and also for establishing channels for public, educational and governmental programming.

AT&T and other companies, as well as the members of the Communications Workers of America union, have pushed for the bill.

John Mahoney, deputy director for the Ohio Municipal League, said his group continues to oppose the bill but that the House version is better than the Senate's in terms of protecting consumers and local governments.

Contact this reporter at (614) 224-1608 or whershey@DaytonDailyNews.com.