The Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act of 2004 (SHVERA) requires the FCC to conduct an inquiry on the impact of certain provisions of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, and FCC rules on competition in the multichannel video programming distribution (MVPD) market. The FCC has to submit a report on the results of this inquiry to Congress no later than nine month's after SHVERA's enactment date.
In a Public Notice last week launching the inquiry, the commission said it is investigating the impact of "the current retransmission consent, network non-duplication, syndicated exclusivity, and sports blackout rules" These rules include the ways that rural cable operators can compete with the broadcast satellite industry in providing digital TV signals.
According to the Public Notice, the FCC's report, "shall include such recommendations for changes in any statutory provisions relating to such rules as the Commission deems appropriate>"
For more information about the inquiry and how to file comments, refer to the Public Notice - Media Bureau Seeks Comment for Inquiry Required by the Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act on Rules Affecting Competition in the Television Marketplace. Comments are due March 1, 2005, with reply comments due on March 16, 2005.
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