With the recent lack of availability for the NFL game where the Packers played the Cowboys, State Representative Terry Moulton says it is time consumers are allowed to choose their cable provider.

Tuesday, the legislature passed the Cable Choice bill with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote.

The bill will open existing cable markets up to competition. But it would cut out a prime chunk of funding from community television stations across Wisconsin.

Moulton says that increased competition is great for consumers.

Community Television Executive Director Joel Desprez says even with an amendment to delay the money cuts for three years, it will still be hurting to stay afloat.

Desprez says he was glad Moulton made the amendment to extend the financial effects they would see for that time, but the bill still takes away 60% of their funding which could be nearly impossible to find from other sources.

Moulton says Governor Jim Doyle supports the bill and will likely sign it before the end of the year.