Frank threatens new obstacle for digital TV; broadcasters mobilizing against possible legislation. (Barney Frank; includes related article on Congressional request for eveing family hour)(Brief Article)

Broadcasting & Cable, July, 1996 by McConnell, Chris

Broadcasters mobilizing against possible legislation Broadcasters could face new obstacles from Congress this week in their journey toward digital television. Representative Barney Frank (D-Mass.) is preparing to introduce legislation that would bar the FCC from assigning licenses for digital television during the next fiscal year.

Late last week Frank was considering tacking one of two measures to appropriations legislation House members are expected to consider this week. One amendment would bar the FCC from issuing digital licenses unless it auctions them or first establishes a rule defining specific public interest obligations. The alternative amendment would simply prohibit the commission from assigning the licenses. Late last week Frank had not...

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