Communications

CFA Supports FCC Proposal to Expand Video Navigation Choices

CFA not only applauds the Federal Communication Commission’s decision to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking dealing with set-top boxes, we fully support the substance and direction of the proposed rules. The cable market is in dire need of competition and opening up the set-top box is a welcome step to promoting innovation in the multichannel video programming distribution (“MVPD”) market. The set-top box is a key chokepoint in the delivery of MVPD services and plays a role in perpetuating that market power and to the detriment of consumers. Without the incentives inherent in a competitive marketplace, the cable industry has had little reason to listen to user needs and adapt accordingly. Opening up the set-top box market finally places the consumers in a more advantageous position when dealing with the cable industry.