ATVA Statement: ATVA Applauds FCC Announcement of Rulemaking on Retransmission Consent Will Work With FCC, Congress to Protect Consumers

Washington, D.C. December 8, 2010 – Today’s announcement that the Federal Communications Commission will initiate a rulemaking on retransmission consent is welcome news for millions of American TV viewers.  With broadcaster blackouts at the highest level in a decade, we applaud the FCC for taking this important step forward and recognizing the need to change outdated rules.  We encourage the FCC to make changes that include a framework to resolve disputes and a ban on broadcaster blackouts during negotiations.  We look forward to working with the FCC on the rulemaking and will continue to work with Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle to balance the scales and protect consumers.