FCC Implementing Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act

The Federal Communications Commission issued three Reports and Orders and a Public Notice to implement the new statutory requirements in the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act (STELA). One of the Orders provides greater flexibility and choice for satellite subscribers to receive television stations from nearby markets. The remaining Orders update the procedures for subscribers to qualify for satellite-delivered distant television stations if they are not able to get local stations. The last action, a Public Notice, requests comments and data for a report to Congress on the availability of in-state broadcast stations.