AT&T has entered into a new multi-year agreement with FOX to ensure thousands of DIRECTV customers, who might otherwise lose access to FOX with the end of the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act Reauthorization (STELAR) Act, continue to receive FOX network content. This agreement will help essential workers stay connected during COVID-19.
Until recently, STELAR authorized DIRECTV to provide a specific group of customers access to certain out-of-market broadcast network stations. The right to distribute those channels is set to expire June 1, 2020.
To minimize disruptions for as many customers as possible, AT&T has been in discussions with each of the major national broadcast networks.
“It is critical for our customers to be able to access network TV programming, especially during this global pandemic,” said Tim McKone, AT&T Executive Vice President of Federal Relations. “With this agreement, essential workers, like those on oil rigs and long-haul truckers, can stay connected with news and information. We appreciate FOX for putting the interests of consumers first and we hope the other networks follow suit.”
AT&T also recognizes the leadership and commitment of Senators Graham and Wicker in helping to provide a smooth transition for customers losing access to certain programming as a result of STELAR discontinuing.
