Sports Blackout Rule Dropped by FCC

Regulators step back from the corporate enforcers role.

The Federal Communications Commission has made it easier for sports fans to watch their favorite teams.

In a unanimous 5-0 decision Tuesday, the FCC voted to repeal its sports blackout policy originally instituted in 1975, which reinforced an NFL policy of blocking television channels from airing games that didn't sell out.

The original purpose of the rule was to ensure that live television broadcasts didn't damage ticket sales. However, the FCC concluded that sports teams, in particular the NFL, can sell out their stadiums without these protections.

Comments

[Bean Counter]

So, it would be OK to block people who can't afford $100 and an entire day to watch the game if they couldn't sell out? How about - butt out Slave!

[Bean Counter]

uh.. Slaver!

[Sevo]

..."the FCC concluded that sports teams, in particular the NFL, can sell out their stadiums without these protections."

Why does this concern the FCC in the slightest?

[Bean Counter]

FYTW!

[Redbeard]

Once again, government butting it's head where the private market would suffice. If the NFL needs blackouts to get butts in the stands, it can negotiate with the networks. Why the fuck did the FCC have anything to do with it?

[Redbeard]

And if that wasn't enough, the NFL doesn't even need the blackout rules anymore. Over half the NFL franchises have not had a blackout IN THIS MILLENIUM.