Cable association backs H.R. 2821

[FTA Michael]

From Multichannel News:

"The American Cable Association is backing legislation that would have the effect of ending the exclusivity of local broadcast television signals in 98 markets across the country.

"...At least in the 98 markets that straddle state lines -- in those markets, cable operators would have an alternative for customers if negotiations to retransmit one signal from a local TV station foundered over fees for carrying that signal."

Much more, highly recommended: http://multichannel.com/article/CA6464524.html Note that the article never mentions the bill by number but provides a link which does.

[James Long]

They seem to be backing it for economic reasons ... forcing stations that are local to deal under the threat that if they don't the system will just add an out of market station that the cable system does not have to pay for or seek permission to air.

That isn't the intent of the bill --- and I expect that the wording they like best will be removed or limited if this bill ever becomes law.