FCC bars exclusive cable deals: Comcast criticizes decision that would give apartment dwellers choice.

Byline: C.R. Roberts

Nov. 1--The Federal Communications Commission ruled unanimously Wednesday that people who live in apartments and condominiums should have a choice from among companies providing cable television service.

The decision, if upheld, will nullify exclusive agreements made between providers and building owners or developers.

A spokeswoman for Comcast, one of the region's largest providers, said the action "is a blow to consumers in apartment buildings and condos who will lose the benefit of significant concessions building owners have been able to negotiate on their behalf."

Sena Fitzmaurice, Comcast senior director of corporate communications and government affairs, said, "The result of this decision is likely to be higher prices for services and years of litigation and uncertainty for consumers."

She said apartment customers could lose discounts negotiated by building owners, and further, she said she did not believe Congress had given the FCC the authority to make such a wide-ranging decision.

"This only begs for an appeal," she said.