The Commission today (12/14) has given its approval to a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that explores ways to enable multichannel video programming distributors, such as cable and satellite providers, to communicate with their subscribers in more efficient and less costly ways.
Specifically, the NPRM proposes to allow cable operators to send general written notices to subscribers by e-mail, as long as they use a verified email address and comply with other consumer safeguards.
The NPRM also proposes to allow cable operators, satellite carriers, and open video systems to deliver certain subscriber privacy notifications by e-mail, subject to certain consumer safeguards, and to permit cable operators to respond to consumer requests or complaints by email in certain situations.
This would effectively modernize certain notice provisions in Part 76 of the FCC’s Rules governing multichannel video and cable television service.
Additionally, the NPRM asks about other ways to update the cable notice rules, including whether to allow cable operators to provide certain subscriber notices on the cable operator’s website. It further asks how the Commission should update the requirement that television broadcast stations send carriage election notices to cable or satellite operators by certified mail.
This is the fourth rulemaking tied to the FCC’s Modernization of Media Regulation Initiative, launched in May 2017. And, the NPRM was approved by a 5-0 vote — a far cry from the divisive party-line vote on moving forward with an NPRM asking whether or not the Commission should remove its UHF Discount.
