Satellite Watches Distant Nets Case

[Steve Mehs]

As of press time late Monday, there was no news concerning litigation between EchoStar and broadcasters over the satellite TV company's alleged delivery of distant network signals to ineligible subscribers.

The seven-year-old case pitted broadcasters and broadcast affiliates against EchoStar, which claimed that the company has delivered distant network stations to customers ineligible for the signals. A decision is expected any time from the U.S. District Court in Miami.

While there was no movement in the case, broadcasters offered their two cents to the court handling the matter. According to documents, broadcasters proposed to the judge that EchoStar be required to permanently cease distant network transmissions within 45 days of a court order in the matter.

On Monday, plaintiffs also filed in the Miami court a proposed "Findings of Fact and Conclusions" - essentially a draft opinion for the judge to consider when making a ruling.

From SkyReport (http://www.skyreport.com) (Used with Permission)

[paulrichjr]

What does this mean to me?? I receive New York and LA channels now. I have had the distant channels for probably 5 years or more. Does this mean that I might not have them next week? Also I get CBS-HD. I would probably lose this also? When I get on the internet and check my address it says that I am not eligible for locals but can receive out of market (all but ABC). (I currently receive all of them including ABC) Would this ruling change this?

Thanks

[RichW]

Whatever the ruling is, it is likely to be appealed.