CAP Act

CAP Act Gains Supports

Update: May 16, 2012 - The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has sent a letter in support of the Community Access Preservation Act (the “CAP Act”) (HR 1746) to all US House members.  Among other things, the bill provides funding for PEG operations and removes the spending distinction between “capital” and “operational” expenses.  In supporting the legislation, the USCCB states:  “This proposed legislation gives Congress a unique opportunity to serve constituents by providing a forum for religious organizations, schools, and community organizations to present local television programming.”  Click here to read the letter.   

Since its introduction in May 2011, the Community Access Preservation (“CAP”) Act (H.R. 1746) continues to gain support from members of Congress.  As of January 1, 2012, the bipartisan bill has 19 co-sponsors.  NATOA members are encouraged to contact their Representatives in Washington and urge them to sign onto the bill.  To help in this effort, NATOA has created a Fact Sheet and a list of Frequently Asked Questions that explain what the bill does and how its passage will help to ensure the financial stability of PEG operations across the nation.   


On May 5th, 2011, the Community Access Preservation (CAP) Act (HR 1746) was introduced by Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Congressman Steven LaTourette (R-OH). Among other things, the legislation removes the distinction between capital and operating uses of PEG support fees; ensures funding for PEG channels; requires cable operators to transmit PEG channels without charge to the local government; and requires the FCC to undertake a study of PEG operations.

Click here to read the bill in its entirety.

On May 17th, NATOA held a free members-only eNATOA on the CAP Act. The Session was moderated by NATOA’s President Ken Fellman, Vice President, Kissinger & Fellman, P.C. Speakers included Amber Shipley, Senior Legislative Assistant for Representative Tammy Baldwin; Dan Cano, Legislative Assistant for Representative Steven C. LaTourette; Bunnie Riedel, Executive Director, American Community Television (ACT); and Sylvia Strobel, Executive Director, Alliance for Community Media (ACM).

Click here for the press release issued by Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Congressman Steven LaTourette (R-OH)