How can an incumbent cable operator obtain a state franchise?
An incumbent cable operator can immediately apply for a VSF. This will have the effect of immediately terminating the existing local franchise with a municipality. The incumbent operator could also choose to continue to provide service under the existing local franchise until its expiration, if the operator so chooses. Once a local franchise expires it may not be renewed or extended and the only available method to provide cable/video service in Wisconsin will be via a VSF. Given the lack of any meaningful oversight or regulation under a state issued VSF, there is little motivation for an incumbent operator to honor an existing local franchise. Virtually all incumbent operators will opt into a VSF and terminate all existing local franchises. 3. Once an operator obtains a state issued VSF can it be transferred? An operator may transfer a VSF by simply providing the Department and the municipality a notice of transfer. While the proposed transferee must submit responses to the same eight
