WASHINGTON, DC -- In response to a proposal by Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Jay Rockefeller and Ranking Member John Thune to attach a plan called "Local Choice" to a Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act reauthorization bill, the following statement can be attributed to NAB Executive Vice President of Communications Dennis Wharton:
"While NAB appreciates Chairman Rockefeller and Ranking Member Thune's careful consideration of video programming laws, this proposal represents a significant rewrite of the Communications Act. Given the shortness of time between now and the end of the Congressional session, we question whether there is sufficient time for key committees in Congress to give this proposal the thorough review that is warranted.
"NAB has always supported a clean reauthorization of STELA and we do not believe this bill is an appropriate vehicle for reviewing the retransmission consent process."
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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.