Senate panel launches ‘clean’ satellite TV bill

The Senate Judiciary Committee renewed a “must-pass” satellite television law that avoided changes to the way businesses negotiate to send TV programs into people’s homes.

Members of the panel said those types of discussions are best left to a broader overhaul of the nation’s communication laws. However, their reluctance to make broader reforms now could run into opposition from other lawmakers who have pledged to use the opportunity to enact change.

“I know a number of other telecommunications issues have been raised relative to this bill, but they are more appropriately handled in the context of a comprehensive communication law overhaul which the Commerce Committee is considering,” said Sen Chuck Grassley (R-IA), the panel’s top Republican. “In the meantime, I look forward to working with the chairman and the Commerce Committee in ensuring that satellite consumers, in particular those in rural areas who need the law to get their television signals, will continue to see those signals.”