Kerry Wants FCC To Investigate Sports Exclusivity

KERRY WANTS MARTIN TO INVESTIGATE SPORTS EXCLUSIVITY
[SOURCE: Broadcasting&Cable, AUTHOR: John Eggerton]
Sen John Kerry (D-MA) has asked FCC Chairman Kevin Martin to investigate DirecTV's "pending agreement" with Major League Baseball on an "Extra Innings" package of out-of-market baseball games. "As you know, Extra Innings is currently available to 75 million subscribers through cable as well as DirectTV and the Dish Network," Kerry wrote to Martin. "However, if this exclusive deal is approved, only 15 million DirectTV subscribers will be able to purchase Extra Innings, leaving 50 million Americans without access to out-of-market games that they currently enjoy and a viable alternative to view them." Sen Kerry is concerned about the precedent for other sports. "I am concerned that this deal, and others that may follow, will separate fans from their favorite teams and reduce competition in the sports market," he said. "I therefore request that you investigate this exclusive deal and report to Congress on its implications for consumers and recommend any changes to law or regulation that will ameliorate its negative effects."
http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6413042?display=Breaking+News