In a joint filing with Consumers Union, Consumer Federation of America, and Free Press, MAP urged the FCC to impose program access and other public interest conditions on the transfer of Commission licenses and authorizations from News Corporation and DIRECTV to Liberty Media Corporation.

In response to the FCC ruling declaring wireless broadband an “information service,” Harold Feld, Senior Vice President of Media Access Project, had the following statement:

bq. “The FCC’s actions today cannot change the legal status of wireless services offered by licensees. Licensees remain subject to Commission regulation under Title III of the Communications Act, regardless of the nature of the service. As Commissioner Adelstein observed, ‘this Order appears to make no difference.’”

MAP Senior Vice President Harold, had the following statement in response to today’s FCC decision to adopt an order on the use of exclusive contracts for access to inside wiring in multiple dwelling units (MDUs):

bq. “This action has the potential to bring the benefits of competition to millions of apartment renters, many of whom live in low-income neighborhoods. Hopefully, access to competing providers will lower costs and improve customer service for these communities.”

MAP Assistant Director Parul Desai, had the following the statement in response to the Commission’s order on Digital Audio Broadcasting:

bq. “The transition to digital radio, which will provide additional streams for programming and other services, presents an opportunity and platform for new and diverse voices and greater service to the public. It is unfortunate that the Commission majority refused to include even a word of official encouragement to broadcasters to voluntarily address the lack of independent programming, especially that created by women and people of color.”

Today, Media Access Project filed a letter with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on behalf of 14 organizations applauding reports that FCC Chairman Kevin Martin has circulated an order reaffirming the FCC’s 30% limit on the number of cable subscribers any one company can control. The letter responds to statements by cable incumbents in recent weeks that the cable market has become so competitive that the FCC should repeal the ownership limit.

On behalf of independent producers, and a diverse coalition of media reform, religious, consumer, and civil rights groups, MAP filed a letter with the FCC applauding reports that Chairman Kevin Martin has circulated an order reaffirming the FCC’s 30% limit on the number of cable subscribers any one company can control.
bq. “The cable companies have [...]