House Communications to Hold Sept. 7 Repacking Hearing

The House Communications Subcommittee confirmed its planned Sept. 7 post-incentive auction repacking hearing, as expected (see 1708300050). The hearing follows a July FCC preliminary estimate that repacking expenses will total $2.12 billion, more than the $1.75 billion allocated in the existing reimbursement fund for post-incentive auction repacking (see 1707140070). The Viewer Protection Act (HR-3347) and Viewer and Listener Protection Act (S-1632) would establish funds to supplement the existing fund (see 1707200051 and 1707260059). “It is critical the FCC works expeditiously to repack the remaining broadcasters without disruption to consumers,” House Communications Chairman Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., said in a news release. The hearing will begin at 10 a.m. in 2123 Rayburn.