Hill poses digital dilemma for broadcasters. (Congress members propose that broadcasters pay for digital spectrum)(Brief Article)

Broadcasting & Cable, January, 1996

Until two weeks ago, broadcasters thought they had a deal with Congress that laid the foundation for the industry's entry into the digital television business. But when the new year came without the enactment of a new telecommunications bill, everything was put back into play. Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole (R-Kan.) has spearheaded an effort to revisit the provisions of the bill that cover the digital spectrum.

The bill does not charge broadcasters for the second channel, but requires them to return their analog spectrum once the transition to advanced televsion is completed. The pending legislation does not set a date certain for return of the analog spectrum. Dole has stated that it is not fair to trim spending on Medicare while broadcasters are...

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