Go Pack Go Act of 2025
Summary
The "Go Pack Go Act of 2025" aims to amend the Communications Act of 1934 and title 17, United States Code, to enhance access to in-state television broadcast programming for cable and satellite subscribers in specific counties. This bill allows subscribers in covered counties in Wisconsin to choose between their local network station or an in-state, adjacent-market network station. The intent is to provide more relevant local broadcast options to viewers who may be geographically isolated within the state.
Expected Effects
The act will likely lead to changes in how cable and satellite providers deliver television signals in the designated Wisconsin counties. Subscribers will have the option to select the broadcast feed that best suits their interests, potentially increasing viewership for in-state adjacent market stations. It also modifies existing regulations concerning retransmission consent and significantly viewed signals.
Potential Benefits
- Provides consumers in specific Wisconsin counties with greater choice in television programming.
- Potentially increases viewership and advertising revenue for in-state, adjacent-market network stations.
- Clarifies the obligations of cable operators and satellite carriers regarding signal retransmission in covered counties.
- Could improve access to local news and information for residents in geographically isolated areas.
- Maintains the ability to receive significantly viewed signals.
Potential Disadvantages
- May create administrative complexities for cable and satellite providers in managing subscriber elections.
- Could lead to disputes over which counties qualify as "covered counties".
- The limited geographic scope (specific counties in Wisconsin) reduces the broader impact.
- Potential for increased costs for providers, which could be passed on to consumers.
- The technical feasibility clause for satellite carriers may limit the actual availability of the new options.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, including the transmission of television signals across state lines. The First Amendment's protection of freedom of speech and press could also be relevant, as the bill aims to broaden access to diverse broadcast content. However, the limited scope to specific counties in Wisconsin might raise questions of equal protection, though this is likely justified by the unique geographic circumstances within the state.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).