Comcast 2014 Annual Report Download - page 28

Table of Contents
NBCUniversal Segments
Cable Networks
Program Access
The Communications Act and FCC regulations generally prevent cable networks affiliated with cable operators from favoring
affiliated cable operators over competing multichannel video programming distributors (“MVPDs”).
In 2012, the FCC relaxed its
restriction on exclusive contracts between cable operators and cable-
affiliated networks; such agreements can now be reviewed on
a case-by-
case basis in response to a complaint. The FCC is considering proposals that would make it easier for MVPDs to
succeed with complaints involving exclusive contracts, and making it easier for them to use buying groups to purchase
programming. The FCC also recently initiated a rulemaking proceeding to determine whether certain online video distributors
(“OVDs”) should be classified as MVPDs and be given the ability to bring
complaints under the program access rules. It is uncertain
whether the FCC will act on these proposals and, if adopted, what impact these proposals would have on our cable networks.
In recent years, both the FCC and Congress have considered proposals that would require companies that own multiple cable
networks to make each of their networks available to MVPDs on a stand-alone or “unbundled”
basis when negotiating distribution
agreements. Lawmakers also have proposed legislation that would provide certain program access rights and protections to online
video distributors. We currently offer our cable networks both on a bundled and, when requested, on a stand-
alone basis. It is
uncertain whether any of these proposals will ever be adopted and, if so, what impact they would have on our cable networks.
Under the terms of the NBCUniversal Order, MVPDs can invoke commercial arbitration for program access in certain
circumstances against our cable networks and broadcast television networks, including our regional sports networks. In addition,
under the NBCUniversal Order and NBCUniversal Consent Decree, we are required to make certain of our cable network,
broadcast television and filmed entertainment programming available to bona fide online video distributors in certain circumstances.
For further discussion of these conditions, see “Broadcast Television” below and refer to the “Must-Carry/Retransmission Consent”
and “Internet Distribution” discussions within that section.
Children’s Programming
The Children’s Television Act (“CTA”)
and FCC regulations limit the amount and content of commercial matter that may be shown
on cable networks, broadcast networks and broadcast television stations during programming originally produced and broadcast
primarily for an audience of children under 13 years of age, and require that television stations’
programming serve the educational
and informational needs of children under 17 years of age. In addition, the NBCUniversal Order includes certain commitments and
conditions related to children’s television and advertising directed at children.
Broadcast Television
Licensing
The Communications Act permits the operation of local broadcast television stations only in accordance with a license issued by the
FCC upon a finding that the grant of the license would serve the public interest, convenience and necessity. The FCC grants
broadcast television station licenses for specific periods of time and, upon application, may renew the licenses for additional terms.
Renewal applications are pending for a number of our broadcast television station licenses. The FCC may grant any license
renewal application with or without conditions, including renewal for a lesser term than the maximum eight years otherwise
permitted. A station’
s authority to operate is automatically extended while a renewal application is on file and under review. Six
pending applications have been opposed by third parties
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Comcast 2014 Annual Report on Form 10
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