Disney's in indecency mix (wants broadcast rules on cable)

[Newsjock]

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA420345?display=Breaking+News&promocode=SUPP

BY TED HEARN -- Multichannel News, 5/24/2004

Washington— The Walt Disney Co. has quietly been lobbying Congress to apply broadcast indecency rules to cable programming, according to informed sources.

Were Congress to agree with Disney, basic and expanded-basic cable networks could be fined thousands of dollars by the Federal Communications Commission for airing four-letter words and steamy love scenes prior to 10 p.m.

Under a Senate bill pending floor action, cable networks, with certain exceptions for news, premium and pay-per-view fare, could face fines for airing violent movies and dramas before 10 p.m.

... According to informed sources, Disney is backing cable indecency legislation while fighting proposals that would require cable operators to sell cable networks a la carte.

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