WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In response to an announcement today by FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler that he will circulate a proposal affecting broadcasters' joint sales agreements and shared services agreements, the following statement can be attributed to NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith:
"NAB is disappointed but not surprised by this proposal from Chairman Wheeler. Broadcast companies across America have demonstrated that sharing arrangements lead to more local news and provide robust competition to giant pay TV providers.
"The real loser will be local TV viewers, because this proposal will kill jobs, chill investment in broadcasting and reduce meaningful minority programming and ownership opportunities."Coincidentally, two industries would benefit from today's proposal: Big Cable companies who want less competition for advertising in local markets, and wireless companies who support punitive FCC actions that drive more TV stations into spectrum auctions."
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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