Connecticut Regulator Questions Optimum Over News 12 Layoffs and Potential Programming Changes
Connecticut's top utility regulator, Thomas Wiehl, chair of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), has sent a letter to cable provider Optimum regarding reported job cuts at its in-house news channel, News 12. Wiehl's letter, addressed to Optimum's director of government affairs, Brian Smith, on August 27, inquires about widespread layoffs at News 12, which operates newsrooms in Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey. Wiehl suggests that if these cuts are as severe as reported, they could constitute 'programming changes' that require prior notification to regulators under state law. He specifically cited a report indicating that the layoffs might impact the channel's ability to provide 'Connecticut-focused coverage.' Optimum's spokesperson, Alexis Aziz, stated that the company is taking 'proactive steps to ensure News 12 remains strong, relevant, and sustainable for the future' and that their mission to deliver 'trusted hyperlocal journalism' remains unchanged. However, Smith, in a response lette...