Senate Commerce Takes on STELA

The Senate Commerce Committee launched its Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act (STELA) reauthorization effort with plenty of issues to hash out and numerous signals that the process would be anything but smooth.

Most of the witnesses supported renewing the legislation so that the approximately 1.5 million viewers, who get distant signals to compensate for a lack of one or more viewable network affiliated TV station signals in their markets, would not lose access. Broadcasting got plenty of praise for the value of its programming since access to their signals is the primary focus of the bill.

Sen Mark Pryor (D-AR), chairman of the Subcommittee, said that the key to the legislation was what was best for consumers, which he suggested was the broadcast programming, relevant news, sports, and "timely weather warnings that can ultimately save lives."