[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 12]
[House]
[Page 17038]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       BLACKOUT RULES ARE UNFAIR

  (Mr. HIGGINS asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, earlier this month, the Federal 
Communications Commission chair put forth a proposal to end government 
support for sports blackouts. This is a welcome step in the fight to 
end blackouts once and for all.
  In my home community of western New York, there is a threat of a 
blackout for the next two home games. This means that, despite 
overwhelming community support, money spent on merchandise, and tax 
dollars being spent for stadium improvements, Buffalo fans will not be 
able to see their NFL team on television.
  On Tuesday I introduced the Furthering Access and Networks for 
Sports, or FANS, Act, which would eliminate these harmful blackouts 
once and for all. Senators Blumenthal and McCain introduced identical 
legislation in the Senate.
  Madam Speaker, blackout rules are unfair, outdated, and alienate 
fans. I will continue to fight until sports teams do the right thing 
for their fans.

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