(a) Findings. Access to PEG programming and other cable services is an important benefit for all residents of the County and arbitrary denial of access to tenants by a landlord is contrary to the public interest.
(b) Landlord to permit installation. A landlord may not prohibit or otherwise prevent a franchisee from entering a multiple-dwelling unit for the purpose of constructing, installing, or servicing cable system equipment if a tenant or occupant of the unit has requested cable service. A franchisee may not make an installation in an individual dwelling unit unless permission has been given by the tenant occupying the unit.
(c) Nondiscrimination in rent. A landlord may not discriminate in rental or other charges based on cable service subscription. The owner of the real property may require compensation in exchange for permitting the installation of cable system equipment within and on the real property only in accordance with the provisions of § 10-9-103.
(d) Franchisee obligations to landlord. A landlord may require a franchisee to install cable system equipment in the multiple-dwelling unit at no cost to the landlord and indemnify the landlord for any damage that results from the installation or removal of cable system equipment.
(e) Sanctions for violation. A landlord's violation of this section constitutes grounds for suspension or revocation of an owner's multiple-dwelling operating license issued under §§ 11-10-101 et seq. of this Code.
(Bill No. 54-06)