Studies [Mackinac Center]

Proposal to Raise Fees on Television Providers is Unnecessary, Likely to Increase Cable Rates

By Dr. Theodore Bolema, published on Nov. 10, 2008

The State should not allow municipal governments to increase public, education and government channel fees when there is no evidence of additional demand. … more

Assessing the Case for Cable Franchise Reform

By Diane S. Katz, published on Sept. 19, 2006

Advances in technology now make it possible for both cable firms and telecommunications companies to provide voice, data and video services to most homes and businesses. This constitutes a dramatic change from the days of cable dominance in the video market, and that of the “Baby Bells” in telephone service. What hasn’t changed, however, is the franchise regime that has long limited access to the local market and thus inhibited competition. In this paper, Diane S. Katz examines the effects of this obsolete regulation on consumers and the economy, as well as the myriad benefits of reform. … more

Mackinac Center Amicus Curiae Brief in Attorney General v. Michigan Public Service Commission

By Patrick J. Wright, published on June 19, 2006

A Mackinac Center “friend of the court” filing to the Michigan Supreme Court in a case involving the Michigan Public Service Commission’s renewable-energy surcharge on electrical bills. … more

A Telecommunications Policy Primer

20 Comprehensive Answers to 20 Basic Questions

By Diane S. Katz, published on Aug. 16, 2004

A guide to understanding telecommunications law and regulation in Michigan and the United States. … more

Crossed Lines: Regulatory Missteps in Telecom Policy

An analysis of forced access in Michigan

By Diane S. Katz and Dr. Theodore Bolema, published on Dec. 3, 2003

Violation of property rights is the defining feature of current telecom policy. … more

The Mackinac Center for Public Policy (“The Center”) is committed to delivering the highest quality and most reliable research on policy issues. The Center guarantees that all original factual data are true and correct and that information attributed to other sources is accurately represented.

The Center encourages rigorous critique of its research. If the accuracy of any material fact or reference to an independent source is questioned and brought to the Center's attention with supporting evidence, the Center will respond in writing. If an error exists, it will be noted in an errata sheet that will accompany all subsequent distribution of the publication, which constitutes the complete and final remedy under this guarantee.