THE PUBLIC MIND: CABLE CONSUMERS SHOULD FIGHT "FREE TV" SURCHARGE

Dear Editor:

The broadcast networks are asking Congress to pass a law that could require cable subscribers to pay to watch "free TV."

The powerful broadcast industry lobbying group is pushing hard for Congress to adopt legislation that would allow over-the-air TV stations to charge cable operators for carrying their programming. If they succeed, cable subscribers will have to pay for "free TV" for the first time in history.

Broadcasters already collect $25 billion annually from advertisers. Now they want cable subscribers to pitch in $3 billion-a-year more. This could result in a 20 percent surcharge on a subscriber's monthly cable bill -- just because they choose to improve their reception of over-the-air television by hooking up to cable.

If broadcasters are allowed to charge cable subscribers for the same programming they already get for free, how long will it be until all TV viewers will have to pay for the privilege of watching "free TV?"

Cable subscribers should take a stand against this anti-consumer surcharge. Write or call your Senators or Congressman, or attend the next town meeting held by your members of Congress, and urge them to oppose the "free TV surcharge." Your voice can make a difference.

Thank you

Roger Harms

General Manager TCI