During last week's Spectrum Impact Webcast, NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith gave a legislative update on spectrum proposals under consideration in Washington, D.C. Joining him were NAB Chief Technology Officer Kevin Gage and Vice President of Technology Bruce Franca who shared research that shows how these proposals could lead to major changes for television stations and viewers, potentially dwarfing the disruptions of the DTV transition.

An archived version of the webcast is available for you to view, along with the accompanying PowerPoint presentation that gives a detailed overview of the effects of spectrum proposals on TV stations and viewers.

We are pleased to report that broadcasters have been successful thus far in the spectrum battle on Capitol Hill. Thanks to broadcasters' incredible on-air and grassroots campaign, over the weekend, harmful spectrum language was stripped from Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid's (NV) debt ceiling legislation.

But while we have succeeded in protecting local television thus far, the battle is far from over. The debt ceiling bill expected to pass Congress today establishes a bipartisan congressional committee tasked with recommending spending cuts to achieve about $1.8 trillion in additional deficit reduction over ten years. The special committee would be required to report its recommendations by late November, upon which Congress must vote by December 23.

Between this committee and the stand alone legislation addressing spectrum, we must continue to be vigilant on this issue this fall when Congress returns. But for now, broadcasters should be extremely proud of the work they have accomplished to ensure a strong future for free, local television.

Your engagement in our efforts to educate legislators about the potentially devastating effects of spectrum proposals on television stations and viewers was crucial. We cannot lose our momentum. August congressional recess is an excellent time to meet with your legislators and invite them to your stations to discuss important issues. Please visit www.nab.org/TheFutureofTV to access our Grassroots Action Kit, which includes talking points and "the ask" to help you articulate our specific position on this issue to legislators.

Thank you for your support and engagement in this effort. You are making a great difference in our efforts to protect the future of television and the valuable services stations provide to viewers. If you have any questions, please call (202) 429-5300 or email us at advocacy@nab.org.