The ACM States its Case in DC

THE ACM STATES ITS CASE IN DC
KEITH THIBAULT, CHAIR OF THE ACM BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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I had the pleasure of joining more than 30 members of the ACM for meetings with Congress and the FCC earlier this month in Washington DC.

Our visits to the nation’s capital are always a great opportunity for us to share the great work we provide in giving a voice to individuals, local governments, and school systems.  It’s important to make sure our value is recognized in the face of media consolidation and cutbacks.

This month’s visits also allowed us to talk with policy makers about the dire consequences of the FCC’s proposed rule, which would allow cable companies the ability to offset franchise fees to local municipalities for items rightfully negotiated in local or state franchising agreements.

Visits to congressional offices yielded widespread support for our arguments against the FCC rule and our mission to serve our communities.  More and more members of Congress have submitted letters to the FCC on our behalf.

There is still time to engage your community to communicate with Congress to convince them to support community media in your city or town.  Please direct people to the ACM’s online petition form: https://www.petition2congress.com/ctas/stop-fcc-from-defunding-peg-channels

I was part of a contingent that met with staff at the FCC.  We were treated with respect from all with whom we met, yet not given a clear indication as to when the commission will meet to set the rule.  We received guidance as to what further information we could provide that would be helpful in the commission making a decision.

We are again at a crossroads as to what the future holds for our industry. We must remind those in power in our communities, and in Washington, that our work is essential to future of our democracy.