May 24, 2010

ACA Statement On Chairmen’s Announcement To Update The Communications Act

PITTSBURGH, May 24, 2010 – “ACA welcomes the Chairmen’s announcement to update the Communications Act of 1934, and looks forward to playing a constructive role as House and Senate committee leaders begin the process of inviting stakeholders to discuss various proposals in a manner that addresses the regulatory challenges of the broadband-driven economy in a bipartisan fashion.

“Congressional action that would clarify the extent of the Federal Communications Commission’s authority to regulate cable broadband service holds the promise of providing greater certainty with fewer unintended consequences for operators and their customers.

“Review of the Communications Act, also provides Congress the opportunity to address other issues impacting small cable operators and their consumers in smaller markets and rural areas, such as outdated retransmission consent and broadcast carriage rules, and ineffective program access regulations.

“Today’s announcement does not impact ACA’s existing commitment to work with FCC Chairman Genachowski and the other FCC Commissioners on these issues as well.”

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 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/