It is ridiculous that the FCC can't make Comcast give us the missing CSN channels but they can tell us what local channels we should get. Local channels are still needed and provide advertising for local businesses and we should help keep that cost low. HOWEVER, there needs to be something done about specific network availability (CW is not available everywhere and a pain to get, and then it's not HD) and others. I receive a different lineup OTA than I do with Directv but that doesn't matter. I would like to see this:
A more-regional DMA system. If your market is missing a channel (or doesn't have it in HD), bring it on from a neighboring DMA.
Take into account the OTA coverage patterns of specific channels and overlay that map with the DMA. I shouldn't be stuck with a terrible ABC affiliate that I PAY FOR while I get two others OTA for FREE that are great. But I am. Basically, take a coverage areas, above, say 0 dB on the TV fool charts, and put in the zip codes. The spotbeam maps will cover most if not all channels. For areas with little or no OTA coverage, use a DMA-style system, but regional as noted above (within the limitations of spotbeams.)
Fix the AM21 mess and allow all subchannels in with a guide, even if said guide only have 2 hours from the OTA signal. I know there are workarounds, but it really doesn't need to be that way.
No one should pay for TV and not have CBS, Fox, NBC, ABC, CW, Univision, and ION - ALL IN HD. Those are basic channels that most people get for free OTA. Telemundo, My Network, Unimas, and perhaps a few others are close to being on that list too. (I know Directv has IONeHD, but many cable companies do not have any ION).
The more options for locals the better. Quality neighboring markets that send signal for free should be able to compete for my tax dollars the same as another channel that the government forces on me. What happened to capitalism/competition?