Time to ‘Sweep’ Away Retrans

“Sweeps Rule” More Evidence of Broken Retrans Regime

Washington D.C. July 12, 2013 – The absurdity of the retransmission consent regime continues this week as broadcasters invoke the “sweeps rule.” Broadcasters have no problem taking down their signal right before the World Series, the Super Bowl and other marquis events, in order to gain more leverage, but when a dispute interferes with “sweeps” period, they suddenly oppose blackouts. Why don’t pay TV providers have such a rule to protect viewers during at marquis events other times during the year?

Consumers deserve rules that protect them from blackouts at all times, not just when it’s beneficial to broadcasters.