(a) "Cable service" means:

(A) One-way transmission to subscribers of a video programming service;

(B) Two-way interactive service delivered over a cable system; or

(C) Any communication with subscribers necessary for the selection and use of video programming or interactive services.

(b) "Cable system" means a facility consisting of closed transmission paths and associated signal operation, reception and control equipment that is designed to provide cable service.

(2)(a) A seller of cable service may assess a late fee on delinquent subscriber accounts held by the seller that have an unpaid balance of $10 or more.

(b) A late fee assessed under subsections (2), (3) and (4) of this section shall not exceed five percent of the unpaid balance or $6, whichever is greater.

(3) The seller of cable service shall conspicuously disclose on each statement or invoice the terms under which a late fee may be assessed, including the amount of the fee.

(4) Prior to assessing a late fee under subsections (2), (3) and (4) of this section, the seller shall give written notice to the subscriber. The notice shall conspicuously indicate the amount of the unpaid balance, an address where payment may be made, the date on which the late fee will be imposed and the amount of the late fee. The notice shall be mailed to the subscriber’s last-known billing address as shown in the seller’s records. The notice shall be mailed at least 10 days prior to the date on which the late fee will be assessed. The late fee may not be assessed earlier than 27 days after the due date for the unpaid balance. [Formerly 646.649]