The Michigan Cable Telecommunications Association was established in 1981 by a group of cable television companies in the state. The goal was to provide a united presence in the Michigan Legislature and before the Michigan Public Service Commission. Regular meetings also helped shape best practices in the industry, which deals with many levels of government – local, state and federal.

Over the years, as the capabilities of cable have grown, the association has been a major force in helping shape public policy in Michigan to allow new technologies to flourish.

During the 1990s, cable television companies evolved into cable telephone companies as well, as changes in state and federal public policies and technological innovations allowed the cable lines in homes to also carry telephone voice signals.

Since 2000, the industry has grown in its capabilities to meet Michigan’s increasing needs for high speed connection to the Internet. The association has successfully advocated for public policies that provide a level playing field for fair and open competition, and the public has been the winner, as cable telecommunications is now part of a robust market of services: Television, telephone and broadband.

What’s next? It’s hard to say. But MCTA will be there to make sure public policy allows cable companies to meet the needs of an expanding marketplace.