Suit Claiming Video Service Fees from DirecTV Can Proceed

A suit alleging that DirecTV LLC and Dish Network Corp. owe video service provider fees may proceed because relevant state law permits municipalities to file such suits, the St. Louis County Circuit Court of Missouri said.

The 2007 Video Service Providers Act clearly states that a “franchise entity,” such as the city of Creve Coeur may sue to collect such fees that are allegedly owed, the court said. Section 67.2691.4 of the Act states that the suits may be filed by a franchise entity, while Section 67.2677 defines franchise entity as “a political subdivision” that’s entitled to collect the fees, ...