H.R.888 - Stop Sports Blackouts Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.888, the "Stop Sports Blackouts Act of 2025," aims to amend the Communications Act of 1934. It directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish regulations requiring video programming providers to issue rebates to subscribers during certain blackouts. These blackouts result from covered negotiations, including retransmission consent and carriage disputes.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be that consumers receive rebates for video programming blackouts, specifically sports events. This could incentivize providers to avoid blackouts to prevent issuing rebates. The FCC would be responsible for creating and enforcing the rebate regulations.
Potential Benefits
- Financial Relief: Subscribers receive rebates during blackouts.
- Increased Accountability: Providers are held accountable for programming disruptions.
- Potential for Fewer Blackouts: Providers may work harder to avoid blackouts to avoid issuing rebates.
- Consumer Empowerment: Empowers subscribers by providing compensation for service interruptions.
- Fairness: Promotes fairness in video programming services.
Potential Disadvantages
- Regulatory Burden: The FCC faces increased workload in creating and enforcing regulations.
- Potential for Increased Costs: Providers may pass the cost of rebates onto consumers through higher subscription fees.
- Complexity: Defining and implementing "covered negotiations" and "appropriate amount of rebate" could be complex.
- Limited Scope: Only applies to specific types of blackouts, not all service interruptions.
- Potential for Litigation: Disputes over the interpretation and application of the regulations could lead to litigation.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. Regulating communications and video programming providers falls under this power. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).