The bill is particularly focused on Wisconsin counties such as Ashland, Barron, and Washburn, which often lack adequate access to local broadcast stations affiliated with major networks. By allowing retransmissions of in-state, adjacent-market network signals, the legislation is anticipated to improve viewing options for residents in these areas, thereby promoting greater media accessibility. As a result, this change could influence local cable and satellite markets significantly, as these providers would need to adjust their offerings to comply with the new retransmission provisions.
Summary
SB2711, also known as the 'Go Pack Go Act of 2025', seeks to amend the Communications Act of 1934 and Title 17 of the United States Code. The primary aim of the bill is to enhance access to in-state television broadcast programming for subscribers using cable and satellite services in certain designated counties. These amendments would allow subscribers residing in specified 'covered counties' to receive retransmission of local network signals that are otherwise limited by regional broadcasting rules.
Contention
Notably, the bill may face contention surrounding issues of copyright and local broadcasting rights. Existing laws govern how and when network signals can be retransmitted to avoid unfair market competition. Opponents of the bill may argue that it could undermine the revenue streams of local stations by increasing competition with adjacent markets, which could ultimately impact the viability of these stations in providing local news and programming. The balance between expanding access and preserving the economic stability of local broadcasters is likely to be a significant point of debate in legislative discussions.
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 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.