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A bill reforming cable franchising is headed for the desk of Nevada Gov. Jim Gibbons.

The bill unanimously passed the state Senate May 25. If signed by the governor, the bill mandates that franchises will now be issued by the Secretary of State. That office will have up to 20 days to issue the authority. Incumbent cable operators may decide whether they wish to operate under their current local franchises or apply for state-authorizing authority, but they will have six months to make that choice.

If a provider delivers poor customer service, communities can file a complaint with the Bureau of Consumer Protection within the Office of the Attorney General.

Nevada's bill requires that providers of Internet access market tools for parents to allow them to block or restrict Internet access to children. Companies may charge for these services, according to the bill.