MetroCast Retransmission
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Retransmission Consent
The Communications Act requires that a television station give its consent to a cable system or other multichannel video programming distributor to carry its broadcast signal. This process, which typically occurs every three years, is called "Retransmission Consent."
Television stations and cable systems, as well as satellite carriers, negotiate for this "retransmission consent," usually on a fee per subscriber basis. If the parties do not reach an agreement, then the cable system or other MVPD must stop offering the stations to their subscribers.
Higher Fees
Local broadcast stations are now demanding much higher fees for the right to retransmit their signals. In fact, some broadcasters have publicly stated that they project their retransmission revenues from video subscribers to more than double over current levels.
As a result, the cost increases for broadcast stations have been substantial and have impacted significantly the prices customers pay for video services in every region of the country, regardless of whether the customer receives video service from cable, telephone or satellite companies.
Loss of Stations
As a further consequence of Retransmission Consent, MetroCast may no longer be able to carry certain "out-of-market" broadcast stations. However, as these stations typically carry the same network programming already carried on local, "in-market" broadcast stations, MetroCast customers will continue to receive all major network programming. Updates will be posted to this site (see below) as negotiations continue with local broadcast stations.
Notice to MetroCast customers in Wolfeboro, Bristol, Hebron, Alexandria and Bridgewater, NH
WBIN (IND-Derry) and its multicast station “Living Well” no longer will be available to customers in Wolfeboro, Bristol, Hebron, Alexandria and Bridgewater, NH after December 31, 2012. The station will continue to be available to MetroCast customers in other New Hampshire communities.
Notice to MetroCast customers in Sanford, ME
WBZ-4 (CBS-Boston) no longer will be available as of January 1, 2013. Customers may continue to view CBS programming on WGME-13 (CBS-Portland).
Notice to MetroCast customers in St. Mary's, MD
WJZ (CBS-Baltimore) no longer will be available as of January 1, 2013. Customers may continue to view CBS programming on WUSA (Washington, DC).
Notice to MetroCast customers in Schuylkill and Pocono, PA
WCAU (NBC-Philadelphia) no longer will be available to customers in Pocono and Schuylkill, PA after January 31, 2013. Customers may continue to view national NBC programming on WBRE (NBC-Wilkes-Barre).
For more information about Retransmission Consent:
