McDowell: Don't Expect Big Changes From FCC On Retransmission

Federal Communications Commission member Robert McDowell said those seeking major changes from the FCC to the retransmission consent process involving broadcasters and cable and satellite providers will likely be disappointed.

During a discussion with National Association of Broadcasters President and CEO Gordon Smith at the group's state leadership conference, Commissioner McDowell was asked about possible changes the FCC may make to the process under which cable operators and other multichannel video programming distributors negotiate the fees they pay broadcasters to use their programming. The FCC is set to take up an item at its monthly meeting Thursday that seeks comment on possible changes to the current retransmission process. But Commissioner McDowell noted that major changes will have to be made by Congress.