Who Gets Cable?  By the FCC's admission, data collection on this issue has failed, leaving it unable to effectively regulate the primary providers of media and internet services. This study provides an alternative benchmark based on the Chicago area.

The project, proposed by the Media Access Project (Washington, D.C.), will highlight the dramatic inconsistency in cable subscribers and emphasize why an accurate reporting is critical for formulation of sound media policy at every level.  The project will survey the local franchising authorities (LFAs) in the state of Illinois, and determine which do and do not have data on subscribers.  Those that do not collect subscriber data directly will be asked how they determine values for franchise fees, which are supposed to be based on cable revenues.  The data obtained will be compared to the market and state data available for Illinois. Illinois is chosen as a case because it includes a reasonable mix of markets from a top-ten market (Chicago), to mid-range markets to rural areas/small markets. The study is envisioned to have positive effects in highlighting the existing problems and the need for regulatory reform.

See also: other Bounty projects offered.