If enacted, HB6966 would notably impact television broadcasting regulations, mandating that cable operators and satellite carriers provide their subscribers in designated counties with the option to access both local signals and in-state adjacent-market network signals. This expanded access may benefit viewers who reside in regions that traditionally have limited broadcasting options and help them connect more closely with local events and news segments relevant to their communities, thereby potentially enhancing viewer engagement and satisfaction.
Summary
House Bill 6966, titled the 'Go Pack Go Act of 2024', seeks to amend the Communications Act of 1934 and Title 17 of the United States Code with the purpose of enhancing access to in-state television broadcast programming for cable and satellite subscribers in specific counties in Wisconsin. The bill aims to facilitate the retransmission of local network station signals alongside adjacent market network stations for subscribers in these covered counties, thereby ensuring they have a broader selection of viewing options that are relevant to their locales.
Contention
Discussions around the bill have highlighted differing opinions on the implications of increased retransmissions. Advocates argue that it serves to protect viewers' rights to local content and helps prevent the isolation of subscribers in rural areas from mainstream media. However, potential contention arises regarding the technical feasibility of such retransmission requirements and whether local stations may bear economic burdens to comply with the new regulations, including the impacts on subscription fees and operational logistics for small providers.
Stop Sports Blackouts ActThis bill requires cable and satellite broadcast providers to issue rebates to customers who are denied access to video programming included in their subscription because of programming negotiations. Specifically, where a provider’s negotiations related to the retransmission or carriage of video programming result in the provider failing to offer access to programming included in a customer’s subscription, the customer must be issued a rebate for the affected period. The Federal Communications Commission is directed to issue rules to this effect, including to establish the appropriate amount for such a rebate.
Stop Sports Blackouts Act of 2025This bill requires cable and satellite broadcast providers to issue rebates to customers who are denied access to video programming included in their subscription because of programming negotiations. Specifically, where a provider’s negotiations related to the retransmission or carriage of video programming result in the provider failing to offer access to programming included in a customer’s subscription, the customer must be issued a rebate for the affected period. The Federal Communications Commission is directed to issue rules to this effect, including to establish the appropriate amount for such a rebate.