The FCC’s Media Bureau released a Public Notice this week starting an examination of the marketplace for sports rights and how changes in that market have affected local broadcasters and consumers.  The notice recognizes what is evident to all consumers – that the sports marketplace has changed as competition has grown for rights to transmit sports to the public.  While asking for comments on those changes, perhaps the most important question asked by the Bureau is, even if it is found that changes in some ways disadvantage some consumers, does the FCC have any jurisdiction to do anything about those changes?

Initially, the FCC recognizes that sports programming long desired by TV broadcasters to attract local audiences is now also sought by cable and streaming companies to attract those same audiences. The FCC notes that competition for these rights likely increases the costs of acquiring this programming, perhaps making it harder for consumers to get access to the programming when it is not on free TV.  The FCC also suggests that the dispersion of rights in some sports leagues may make it harder for consumers to find the programming that they desire, as coverage is spread across multiple broadcast and streaming platforms.  Not only are consumers confused, but they may end up paying more through subscriptions to multiple services to ensure that they can see the games of their favorite teams.Continue Reading FCC to Examine Changes in Sports Media Marketplace and Its Impact on Broadcasters’ Public Interest Obligations