NEWS
Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street, S.W.
Washington, D. C.  20554
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.
See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974).
News Media Information 202 / 418-0500
Internet: http://www.fcc.gov
TTY: 1-888-835-5322
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: NEWS MEDIA CONTACT:
November 1, 2013 Justin Cole, 202-418-0611
Email: justin.cole@fcc.gov
ACTING FCC CHAIRWOMAN CLYBURN STATEMENT ON TAKING ACTION TO 
ADDRESS THE AGENCY’S SPORTS BLACKOUT RULES
“Today, I circulated a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to eliminate the Commission’s nearly 
40-year old sports blackout rules.  
“Changes in the marketplace have raised questions about whether these rules are still in the public 
interest, particularly at a time when high ticket prices and the economy make it difficult for many sports 
fans to attend games. Elimination of our sports blackout rules will not prevent the sports leagues, 
broadcasters, and cable and satellite providers from privately negotiating agreements to black out certain 
sports events.
“Nevertheless, if the record in this proceeding shows that the rules are no longer justified, the 
Commission’s involvement in this area should end.” 
-FCC-
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