View Rule

In this proceeding, the Commission seeks comment on whether to require cable operators and direct broadcast satellite (DBS) providers to give their subscribers rebates when those subscribers are deprived of video programming they expect to receive during programming blackouts that result from failed retransmission consent negotiations or failed non-broadcast carriage negotiations.  In the event that such a requirement is adopted, the Commission seeks comment below on how to apply the rule, and whether to specify the method that cable operators and DBS providers use to offer the rebates and if so, how they should issue rebates.  The Commission also seeks comment on its our authority to adopt a rebate rule.  The Commission also invites comment on any other proposals to ensure that subscribers are made whole when they lose access to programming that they expected to receive in exchange for paying a monthly subscription fee when they signed up for service.