WASHINGTON – December 3, 2009 – The Association of Public Television Stations (APTS) applauds the House action taken today in passing H.R. 3570, the Satellite Home Viewer Update and Reauthorization Act of 2009. The House approved the bill by a vote of 394 to 11, with 29 Members not voting.  

"APTS is pleased with the bipartisan action taken by the House and with the leadership of Chairmen Conyers, Waxman and Boucher, and Ranking Members Smith, Barton and Stearns," said APTS President and CEO Larry Sidman. "This legislation reflects a reasoned approach to the satellite carriage needs of public television stations across the country."  

Sidman concluded: "APTS is particularly grateful to Congresswoman Eshoo for her work in drafting vital provisions that ensure Americans will have accelerated access to the breadth of high-definition public television programming through satellite carriage. While this bill moves forward through the legislative process, APTS continues to negotiate with DISH Network to reach a private carriage agreement."