WASHINGTON, DC – The House of Representatives today again resoundingly approved bipartisan legislation that ensures 1.5 million satellite television subscribers continue to receive service and makes a number of changes to improve the video marketplace for consumers. H.R. 5728, the STELA Reauthorization Act is a bipartisan product of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and House and Senate Judiciary Committees. The House approved H.R. 5728 by voice vote.

"The clock is ticking, and this bill will ensure when folks flip on their TVs, their favorite show will be available, when they want to watch it. For many months, we have reached across party lines and across the two houses of Congress to craft a thoughtful compromise for this must-pass legislation that makes targeted reforms and improves the video marketplace for TV viewers across the country," said House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI). "These reforms are prime examples of the kind of deregulatory changes we are looking at as we work to update the 80-year-old Communications Act. They will spur investment in communications networks, promote competition, and create needed American jobs."

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-VA) commented: "The vast majority of Americans have relied upon satellite and cable services for access to a wide variety of video content, ranging from nighttime entertainment for their families; educational shows for their children; local and national news and emergency information; and public access channels that empower Americans to see their local, state, and federal representatives in action. The House has once again passed legislation which ensures that our constituents have full access to this network programming no matter where they live. It’s time for the Senate to pass the STELA Reauthorization Act."

"By coming together to produce legislation with strong bipartisan, bicameral support we have demonstrated our clear commitment to the continued availability of broadcast programming to millions of subscribers and to some targeted and, in some cases, much needed reforms to our communications laws," added Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR). "This type of collaboration has long been the hallmark of our committee, and I’m pleased to see this legislative result."

"The legislative process isn’t always pretty but it does a good job incorporating all points and perspectives. This new STELA reauthorization is an example of the process working –it protects the interests of consumers and intellectual property owners, while addressing some pretty controversial issues," said Judiciary Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet Subcommittee Chairman Howard Coble (R-NC).

The House previously approved legislation reauthorizing the nation’s satellite television law in July. H.R. 5728 has received the support of groups including 21st Century Fox, ABC / Disney, the American Cable Association, the American Television Alliance, CBS, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV & Dish Network, the National Cable and Telecommunications Association, and US Telecom.

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