C!tnugress nf ti,e 1ftniteh §fates l!Jllu.sl1ington, :mcrr 20515 525 July 29, 2019 The Honorable Ajit Pai Chairman Federal Communications Commission 455 12111 Street SW Washington, DC 20544 Re: In the Matter of Implementation of Section 621 (a) of the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984 as amended by the Cable Television Consumer Protection and Competition Act of 1992, Third Report and Order (MB Docket No. 05-311) Dear Chainnan Pai: As members of the New York Delegation, we are writing in response to the FCC's Third Repo1i and Order (MB Docket No. 05-311) regarding the way local franchising authorities regulate cable operators. In particular, we are united in our concern that the mlemaking could harm public, educational and government (PEG) stations. It is our sincere hope that you will work to ensure that the interests of local programming are protected when adopting a final mle. New York PEG channels have long served our communities by airing shows that are produced locally, highlight local news and events, and reflect the unique character of our specific neighborhoods. PEG channels air community meetings, cover local government, and allow educational institutions to create instmctive programming. They offer audio/visual career training to students, provide platforms for veterans, seniors, and others who do not otherwise have a voice, and generally help New Yorkers connect with their local governments in ways that are not otherwise available. We are deeply concerned that the outcome of this proposal could jeopardize these important services. Under the Communications Act, local governments can require as part of cable franchise agreements that cable operators meet demonstrated community needs by setting aside channels for PEG stations. We are concerned that the FCC's proposal would allow the cost oflocal channels to be deducted as an "in-kind" service from the franchise fees paid to local goverrunents. This loss of revenue would result in a substantial reduction of the scope of PEG channels, or in their complete loss altogether. PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER Given the importance of PEG stations to our communities across the state and the nation, we ask that the FCC work to protect their interests when adopting a final rule. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Sincerely, Eliot L. Engel Member of Congress - Adriano Espaillat Member of Congress Brian Higgins ~, ~--- Member of Congress Member of Congress - Member of Congress Member of Congress ~~-~---~--------- Max N. Rose Member of Congress ~R&u· se E. Setrnno Thomas R. Suozzi ember of Congress Member of Congress ia M. Velazquez Member of Congress 2