This week, Sen. Maria Cantwell (WA)sent a letter to FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel urging her to refresh the record in 2014 proceeding that sought comment on whether the definition of "multichannel video programming distributor" (MVPD) should be updated to reflect the growing number of video streaming services.
"We must ensure that new technological trends do not further endanger our local broadcasters, and so it is critical that the FCC consider whether the current retransmission consent model is sustainable and continues to benefit our local communities," the letter stated.
Sen. Cantwell, in her position as chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, also questioned FCC nominees this week about their positions on refreshing the record in the vMVPD proceeding.
2. Congressional Support for AM Radio Grows
The AM Radio For Every Vehicle Act continues to gain momentum in Congress. The legislation now has 100 cosponsors.
This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would direct the Secretary of Transportation to ensure consumer access to AM radio in all vehicles.
📣 Make your voice heard:Click here to thank your lawmakers for supporting AM radio or urge them to become a cosponsor.
3. PRESS Act Introduced in House
Reps. Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and Kevin Kiley (CA-03) have introduced the Protect Reporters from Exploitive State Spying (PRESS) Act in the House.
This legislation would protect the press against government surveillance and would ensure members of the press may continue their important work without fear or favor.
4. Insights from an NAB Crystal Heritage Award Winner
At this year's NAB Show, NAB presented Bonneville International's KTAR-FM Phoenix, Ariz., with the esteemed Crystal Heritage Award, recognizing the station for winning five Crystal Radio Awards.
Ryan Hatch, senior vice president and marketing manager of Bonneville Phoenix accepted the award on behalf of the station and joins the NAB Podcast to discuss what it means to win the prestigious award, the value of local radio and the importance of finding the next generation of radio talent.
5. New Nature Focused Spots Available
Refresh your station's public service announcement creative at NAB's Spot Center, a destination for local radio and television broadcasters seeking public educational materials from credible organizations. These recently added spots call viewers and listeners to action for the planet.
The newest TV spot from The Nature Conservancy tells how we can work together to preserve our land, waterways and wildlife.
TV and radio spots from WildAid take a lighthearted look at using the environment excuse to get out of "just about anything."
6. Have You Applied to the Broadcast Leadership Training Program Yet?
Are you ready to take your management career to the next level? The NAB Leadership Foundationis now accepting applications for the 2024 Broadcast Leadership Training (BLT) program.
👩🏫 The BLT program is an executive MBA-style program that teaches the fundamentals of purchasing, owning and operating radio and television stations. As the foremost executive training initiative for the broadcast industry, the 10-month program prepares aspiring broadcast station owners and executives with the working knowledge to further their careers.
Shawn Donilon, executive vice president, Government Relations, NAB, spoke this week before the House Judiciary Committee at a roundtable discussion of the music industry ecosystem.
Earlier this week, talk show host Hugh Hewitt and Sen. Ted Cruz (TX) held a briefing on AM radio in the Senate.
Nicole Gustafson, senior vice president, Government Relations, NAB, spoke on a panel with Patrick Cross, Brooks Pierce; David Oxenford, Wilkinson Barker Knauer and Brad Epperly, Nyemaster.
Photo by Brian Sather
John Clark, senior vice president, Emerging Technology and Executive Director, PILOT, spoke at the Iowa Broadcasters Association's annual convention.
8. Member Benefit: Gain Insights into APPI's Summer 2023 Energy Outlook
As summer temperatures start to climb, the energy markets are gearing up for the increase in demand, caused largely by increased air conditioning load. Learn how this summer's weather can impact energy costs with APPI Energy's insights.
Enroll in APPI Energy's program as a NAB member to explore options that can help your organization reduce energy costs and minimize budgetary risk.
