On June 20, 2023, the FCC released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (“NPRM”) seeking comment on rules requiring cable operators and direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) providers to specify the “all-in” price for services in their promotional materials and on subscribers bills pursuant to the Television Viewer Protection Act of 2019.
Specifically, the FCC proposes requiring cable operators and DBS providers to aggregate the cost of video programming service as a prominent single line item on subscribers’ bills and in promotional materials (if they choose to advertise a price in promotional materials). The aggregate amount should include the full amount the operator or provider charges or intends to charge for the video service, inclusive of broadcast retransmission consent, regional sports programming, entertainment programming, and other programming-related fees, but not taxes or charges unrelated to video programming. The FCC’s goal is to increase transparency for consumers about the actual amount per month they will be required to pay and make it easier for them to comparison shop among various providers and services.
The FCC seeks comment on this proposal, including whether this will address the FCC’s concerns with regard to consumer transparency, the current marketplace and industry practices, whether there are existing consumer protections that may prevent these billing practices, and the Commission’s legal authority to adopt the proposal.
Comments are due 30 days after date of publication in the Federal Register.
Reply Comments are due 60 days after date of publication in the Federal Register.
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