There They Go Again – Broadcaster Blacks Out Viewers in 17 Markets, Makes the Case for New FCC Rules

ATVA Statement: Washington, D.C. March 5, 2011 – Before the ink has dried on the Federal Communications Commission’s new proposed rules on retransmission consent, a broadcaster has proven yet again why reform is essential to protect viewers.  LIN Media pulled the plug on 27 stations in 17 markets on DISH Network, dragging viewers into yet another retransmission consent negotiation.  This comes less than 48 hours after the FCC approved initiation of a rulemaking “to protect consumers from the disruptive impact” of broadcaster blackouts.   These bullying tactics will continue until the FCC reforms outdated rules and balances the scales that today give broadcasters numerous advantages.

Markets affected by LIN Media blackout:  Albuquerque, N.M.; Austin, Texas; Buffalo, N.Y.; Columbus, Ohio; Dayton, Ohio; Fort Wayne, Ind.; Grand Rapid, Mich.; Green Bay, Wis.; Indianapolis; Lafayette, Ind.; Mobile, Ala.; New Haven, Conn.; Norfolk, Va.; Providence, R.I.; Springfield, Mass.; Terre Haute, Ind.; and Toledo, Ohio.  Stations include CBS, FOX, NBC, CW and MyNetwork affiliates.