It's scramble time for adult channels; operators must block or move services by May 18; MSOs stand to lose millions. (multiple system operators)(Cable)

Broadcasting & Cable, May, 1997 by Colman, Price

Operators must block or move services by May 18; MSOs stand to lose millions When the cable industry dons a federally mandated chastity belt on May 18, it will crimp more than the daytime viewing habits of adult-programing fans. Under Section 505 of the 1996 Telecommunications Act, cable operators must begin scrambling both audio and video feeds for adult programing on May 18.

If that's impossible--as it is for an estimated 60% of cable systems then cable operators must move the programing into the 10 p.m.--6 a.m. time slot. Compliance means that cable MSOs could lose $25 million-$50 million in annual revenue from adult programing, according to some estimates. A recent Paul Kagan Associates study shows that total cable PPV revenue is about $661...

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