PAGES

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

FCC's cable TV proposal draws opposition from minority and rural groups

A recent proposal from the Federal Communications Commission could change the way viewers buy cable television, but some rural and minority groups are not happy about it. The Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, the League of Rural Voters and the Hispanic Federation have joined together in their opposition to the proposed changes from FCC Chairman Kevin Martin, reports InformationWeek.

"The FCC is considering revising its cable TV regulations, using the so-called 70/70 rule as justification," K.C. Jones writes. "The 70/70 rule states that when 70 percent of American homes can access cable and 70 percent of those with access subscribe, the FCC can impose new regulations to ensure competition."

Many say that threshold has not been met, but Martin reportedly wants to allow providers to offer pay-per-channel service so households can select particular channels instead of packages, Jones reports. Those who oppose the change say such a rule would reduce the number of minority-owned channels and mean higher prices for rural residents. "The FCC's continuing effort to stiff-arm rural viewers has hit a new low," League of Rural Voters executive director Niel Ritchie said in a statement. (Read more)

No comments:

Post a Comment