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LULAC Encouraged by “Ditch the Box” Proposal

July 7, 2016

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The League of United Latin American Citizens is greatly encouraged by the recently introduced “Ditch the Box” proposal which is an important step forward in the effort to give consumers the ability to watch paid TV without renting or purchasing set top boxes. Since the start of this debate, LULAC has encouraged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to consider “third-way” approaches that would expand consumer choice and lower monthly bills without threatening the business models of independent and diverse networks currently serving the Latino community. We’re pleased to see minority programmers and TV distributors coming together around just such a proposal, and we encourage the FCC to give this plan the thoughtful consideration it deserves.

The proposal’s app based approach allows consumers to access paid TV programming with smart TVs and other devices using the open HTML5 standard—ensuring maximum compatibility with 3rd party devices. The content will also be provided through the paid TV providers managed IP network or satellite feed— much better option than requiring a fast broadband connection that could be an added expense for many consumers negating the savings of ditching a set top box.

The proposal also avoids many of the unintended consequences of the FCC’s initial proposal which included the costly re-engineering of video provider systems, subjecting consumer viewing habits to less stringent privacy standards and a potential negative impact on the business models of independent and diverse content providers.

“LULAC encourages the FCC to consider the Ditch the Box proposal carefully,” stated LULAC National President Roger C. Rocha, Jr. “We urge the agency to pursue a compromise solution with minority programmers and TV distributors that will help lower costs for consumers while providing them with more choices in how they watch TV.”

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The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 1000 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.