NEWS
Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street, S.W.
Washington, D. C.  20554
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.
See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974).
News Media Information 202 / 418-0500
Internet: http://www.fcc.gov
TTY: 1-888-835-5322
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NEWS MEDIA CONTACT:
September 5, 2008 Amy Blankenship at (202) 418-2500
STATEMENT OF COMMISSIONER DEBORAH TAYLOR TATE
ON SMALL CABLE OPERATOR EXEMPTION
The Order adopted this week is pro-consumer and pro-businesses.  Since arriving at the Commission I have 
tried to be a voice for small and local business interests and the unique challenges they face.  Recognizing the finite 
capacity and limited financial resources of most small cable operators, particularly those in rural areas, the 
Commission appropriately exempts systems of 552MHz or less, and those with 2500 or fewer subscribers, that are 
not affiliated with a major cable operator, from the requirement to carry an HD version of their broadcast signals.  
This is consistent with the Commission’s goal to provide every American with access to voice, video, and data 
services.  Without this exemption, I fear that many consumers in small towns across the country would experience a 
loss of service, or a dramatic increase in rates. I applaud the Commission for establishing this solution to protect 
consumers and small business owners.