Government Affairs Update for Christian Broadcasting
Our Office of Government Affairs has been at work for the last several months with both members of the House and Senate as well as the FCC. The issue is called multicast must carry for television stations. Currently, under the digital capabilities of television stations, six channels can originate from one signal. Thus, to receive the Trinity Broadcasting Network over cable, simultaneously they are broadcasting five other channels of Christian broadcasting. Unfortunately, the cable systems have been reluctant to pick up the additional Christian channels. It now appears that a vote is scheduled with the FCC on what is called multicast equal access on June 21st.
We think it is important for religious broadcasters to be given the same access as other channels and networks. We are optimistic that the vote will be in our favor. However, it promises to be a very close vote, and our Government Affairs Office is taking nothing for granted. We will keep you posted as to the progress of this important effort.