What a difference a decade makes. Ten years ago, streaming was still in its infancy, mostly dominated by Netflix. For local broadcast content, consumers primarily had only two choices– subscription cable via a Multichannel Video Programming Distributor (MVPD) or free over the-air (OTA) via an antenna.Operators risked losing customers to a competitor (most likely satellite)…

This year is a “cycle year” meaning many retransmission agreements will be up for renewal. Operators will be forced to respond to unchecked retransmission fee increases and detailed agreements. As you enter into negotiations, you need to know and remember that there have been recent changes and interpretations of the rules.

October 5, 2022 marks the 30th anniversary of the enactment of the Cable Television Consumer Protection and Competition Act of 1992, and the establishment of retransmission consent. What a difference 30 years make!