PITTSBURGH, December 17, 2014 – American Cable Association President and CEO Matthew M. Polka issued the following statement regarding U.S. Senate confirmation of Federal Communications Commission Commissioner Michael O’Rielly to a full five-year term:
“The American Cable Association congratulates FCC Commissioner Michael O’Rielly on being confirmed by the U.S. Senate to a full five-year term at the agency.
“During his time at the FCC, Commissioner O’Rielly has demonstrated a keen understanding of both the law and the industry. He has recognized that imposing burdensome regulations on broadband providers can inhibit innovation and investment. He also understands that the FCC should use its limited funds to focus on bringing broadband service to the highest-cost unserved areas where competing providers are unlikely to offer service — ensuring all Americans receive the best broadband service most efficiently.
“ACA is especially appreciative that Commissioner O’Reilly voted on March 31 to ban retransmission consent collusion by local TV stations, a bipartisan FCC action that was not only ratified, but also expanded by Congress in the recently enacted Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act Reauthorization Act (STELAR).”
About the American Cable Association: Based in Pittsburgh, the American Cable Association is a trade organization representing about 850 smaller and medium-sized, independent cable companies who provide broadband services for nearly 7 million cable subscribers primarily located in rural and smaller suburban markets across America. Through active participation in the regulatory and legislative process in Washington, D.C., ACA’s members work together to advance the interests of their customers and ensure the future competitiveness and viability of their business. For more information, visit https://acaconnects.org/