Kentucky NFL Fans Upset Over TV Coverage Should Not Contact PSC

The Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) is advising
National Football League fans that it cannot help them obtain cable television
access to the NFL Network.

“In the past several months, the PSC has received scores
of e-mails from football fans asking that the PSC compel their local cable
television systems to carry the NFL Network cable channel,” PSC Chairman Mark
David Goss. “By federal law, the PSC has no authority over cable television
content or rates, so we cannot act on these complaints.”

Goss suggested that unhappy fans contact the Federal
Communications Commission or local governments that issue franchises to cable
television providers.

The complaints are the result of a decision by the
National Football League to establish its own cable network and make certain
games available only on its network. Many cable companies are not carrying the
NFL Network because they say it costs too much.

The NFL Network is encouraging fans to pressure the cable
systems by complaining to regulatory agencies, including state utility
commissions.

“While the PSC always wants to assist consumers, this is
one instance in which all we can do is drop back and punt,” Goss said. “We
simply have no jurisdiction.”