[bigbob]

I thought I'd post a story about this because I suspect not many are aware what is being contemplated -- or, I should say, will happen, now that Genakowski will stay at the helm of FCC.

Basically the want to offer to buy up the licenses from broadcast (OTA or Over The Air) TV stations. In return for going off the air, or finding some alternative to OTA broadcasting, they'll get a nice check from you and me based on a reverse auction process. FCC hopes to clear out 120 mHz of spectrum this way, that they can turn around and auction off to broadband providers.

Some OTA stations may just say it's time to throw in the towel and go off the air. Others might partner with competitor stations to utilize their second DTV channel, and split the "incentive" payoff. I suppose some might consider going internet-cable only.

In any case, it's another example of Big Brother meddling in the private market, and who wants to bet this will all turn out great for you and I?

[Army Air Corps]

Ping.

[Michigan Bowhunter]

satellite providers will benefit......

[Buckeye McFrog]

The end result of this will be another Obamaphone program to pay the cable bills of “low income” people.

[FrankR]

If they must, they should start with Public Broadcasting, and PBS. Then, TBS.