PITTSBURGH, December 7, 2011 – ACA President and CEO Matthew M. Polka issued the following statement on news that Federal Communications Commissioner Michael Copps is stepping down Jan. 1, 2012, after a decade of public service at the regulatory agency:
“Within weeks, Commissioner Copps will be stepping down from his position at the Federal Communications Commission. While Commissioner Copps will be leaving government, the American Cable Association will always appreciate him. During his decade in office, Commissioner Copps achieved many great things.
“Candid and conscientious, Commissioner Copps was a model public servant. His commitment to protect the public interest was total during an era of unprecedented consolidation by media corporations driven by financial gains more than serving the public.
“In his time at the FCC, Commissioner Copps always asked the right questions, always demanded the facts wherever they may lead, and always sought the right results for the American people. His legacy of looking out for the little guy — including independent cable operators, who are appreciative — will endure for many years. Commissioner Copps leaves a record that should serve as a role model for future commissioners in search of courage, inspiration and resolve when the heat starts to rise in the political kitchen.”
About the American Cable Association: Based in Pittsburgh, the American Cable Association is a trade organization representing nearly 900 smaller and medium-sized, independent cable companies who provide broadband services for more than 7.6 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/.