January 10, 2024 – ACA Connects President & CEO Grant Spellmeyer released the following statement regarding reports that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted today to open a rulemaking seeking comment on a proposal to require MVPDs to give customers funds for programming blackouts that occur during retransmission consent negotiations.
“Retransmission consent is a broken system that punishes customers with skyrocketing fees, exorbitant price increases, and more blackouts. It’s disappointing that the FCC, with a partisan 3-2 vote, is reportedly doubling down on this broken system that gives insatiable mega-broadcasters even more leverage over smaller cable operators seeking fair and reasonable rates. We are eager to review the specifics of the FCC’s proposal, as we have serious concerns about the feasibility of compliance.
“ACA Connects will continue to advocate to the FCC and leaders in Washington to address the root causes of programming blackouts without forcing small and independent providers to comply with impossible requirements. Our goal remains to ensure they can deliver high-quality programming and services at affordable prices.”
Related:
- ACA Connects Statement on FCC Proposals Regarding Broadcast Blackouts (October 11, 2023)
- Grant Spellmeyer Written Statement Before the Energy and Commerce Committee (September 13, 2023)
About ACA Connects: America’s Communications Association –America’s Communications Association – ACA Connects is a trade organization representing approximately 500 smaller and medium-sized, independent companies that provide broadband, video, and phone services covering 29.5 million households. ACA Connects Members operate in every state, providing advanced communications to connect homes, companies, main street, schools, hospitals and more. America’s economic prosperity in smaller communities and rural areas depends on the growth and success of ACA Connects Members, who believe a connected nation is a prosperous nation.