NAB COUNTERS CEA-FUNDED SPECTRUM STUDY

WASHINGTON -- The National Association of Broadcasters today dismissed a recent study funded by the Consumer Electronics Association estimating the market-value of broadcast television spectrum. The study was filed with the Federal Communications Commission late Friday, and while CEA commissioned the study, the group also told the federal agency that it "does not necessarily endorse" the results.

Commenting on the study, NAB Executive Vice President Dennis Wharton issued the following statement.

"CEA's study ignores the immeasurable public benefit of a vibrant free and local broadcasting system that is ubiquitous, reliable as a lifeline service in times of emergency, and flexible enough to include HDTV, diverse multicast programming and mobile DTV. That CEA itself does not endorse its own commissioned study reinforces its isolation as primarily an academic exercise. Meanwhile, broadcasters and forward-thinking CEA member companies have embraced mobile DTV to enable delivery of live and local TV to cellphones, laptops and the back seats of cars.

"Notably, television broadcasters just returned a third of our spectrum to government as part of our historic DTV transition; as the FCC's process to recommend a National Broadband Plan moves forward, NAB believes it is imperative that policymakers explore spectrum efficiency choices that don't limit consumer access to the full potential of digital broadcasting."

NAB also filed comments with the Federal Communications Commission late Friday concerning the agency's request for information on spectrum management practices as they relate to the rollout of nationwide broadband. NAB's comments were filed jointly with the Association for Maximum Service Television (MSTV).

About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.

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