On March 14, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted new rules that require cable
television operators and satellite video providers to specify the
aggregate monthly all-in price for video programming services on
customer bills, any advertising, and all promotional materials in a
"clear, easy-to-understand, and accurate single
line-item."
The price must include all charges for broadcast stations,
sports programming, and any other programming. Other line items
such as taxes, administrative fees, equipment fees, franchise fees,
and fees for public, educational, and governmental (PEG) channels
are not required to be part of the all-in price.
The FCC's action represents the latest iteration of the
Biden administration's broader "whole of government"
attack on what it views as "junk fees" and opaque pricing. The
rule was significantly controversial, drawing concerns from
industry stakeholders that the rule could potentially distort
competition, as well as
