Media Contact: 
Janice Wise, (202) 418-8165
janice.wise@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
FCC PROPOSES TO UPDATE ITS MVPD SUBSCRIBER 
NOTIFICATION RULES AND BROADCASTER CARRIAGE 
ELECTION PROCEDURES
Action is Part of the FCC’s Modernization of Media Regulation Initiative
WASHINGTON, December 14, 2017—The Federal Communications Commission today 
issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that explores ways to enable multichannel video 
programming distributors, such as cable and satellite providers, to communicate with their 
subscribers in more efficient and less costly ways.  
Specifically, the Notice proposes to allow cable operators to send general written notices to 
subscribers by email, as long as they use a verified email address and comply with other 
consumer safeguards.  The NPRM also proposes to allow cable operators, satellite carriers, and 
open video systems to deliver certain subscriber privacy notifications by email, subject to 
certain consumer safeguards, and to permit cable operators to respond to consumer requests or 
complaints by email in certain situations. 
Additionally, today’s Notice asks about other ways to update the cable notice rules, including 
whether to allow cable operators to provide certain subscriber notices on the cable operator’s 
website.  It further asks how the Commission should update the requirement that television 
broadcast stations send carriage election notices to cable or satellite operators by certified mail.
This is the fourth rulemaking of the FCC’s Modernization of Media Regulation Initiative 
launched in May 2017.  The initiative’s goal is to reduce unnecessary regulation that can 
impede competition and innovation in media markets. 
Action by the Commission December 14, 2017 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 17-
168). Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn, O’Rielly, Carr and Rosenworcel approving.  
Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn, O’Rielly and Carr issuing separate statements.
MB Docket No. 17-317; MB Docket No. 17-105
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www.fcc.gov/office-media-relations
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. Cir. 1974).