WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the release of a report today by the Department of Justice regarding broadcasters' joint sales agreements and shared services agreements, the following statement can be attributed to NAB Executive Vice President of Communications Dennis Wharton:
"NAB respectfully but strongly disagrees with the conclusions of the Justice Department's Antitrust Division. Joint sales agreements allow local TV stations that might otherwise go out of business to increase local news and community service, and to provide robust competition to pay TV giants. In an era when $200 monthly bills from consolidated broadband and cable companies are becoming the norm, it's important to remember that heavily regulated local TV stations remain free of charge to every American. NAB is disappointed with the Justice Department's conclusions, which we believe could kill jobs and damage the economics of local broadcasting."
In a meeting with the FCC earlier this week, NAB presented examples of the public service benefits of broadcasters' sharing agreements.
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.
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