SBCA Responds to House Energy and Commerce’s Mark-up of the Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act of 2004

Alexandria, Va., June 3, 2004 – The Satellite Broadcasting and Communications Association (SBCA) today issued the following remarks in response to the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s mark-up of the Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act of 2004 (SHVERA).

“SBCA appreciates the House Energy and Commerce Committee moving so quickly on this critical legislation,” said Jason Scism, director of government affairs, SBCA. “The language marked up today begins to allow satellite carriers to compete on a more level playing field with cable operators, but there are still issues left to be resolved. We look forward to working with all interested parties as this reauthorization moves forward.”

SHVERA is must pass legislation as the satellite industry’s compulsory licenses expire at the end of this year. The legislation still must be considered by the House Judiciary Committee; the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee and the Senate Judiciary Committee before it goes before the full House and Senate for a vote. SHVERA is scheduled for mark-up in the Senate Judiciary Committee as early as next week.

Over 22 million US households, or one out of every five, subscribe to satellite television services.

The Satellite Broadcasting and Communications Association is the national trade organization representing all segments of the satellite industry. It is committed to expanding the utilization of satellite technology for the broadcast delivery of video, audio, data, music, voice, interactive, and broadband services. SBCA is composed of DBS, C-band, broadband, satellite radio, and other satellite service providers, content providers, equipment manufacturers, distributors, retailers, encryption vendors, and national and regional distribution companies that make up the satellite services industry. Additional information can be found at www.sbca.com.