By John Eggerton, Multichannel News, 12-21-20
The House and Senate both voted late Monday (Dec. 21) on a paired-up package of a COVID-19 relief bill and an omnibus government spending bill loaded with billions of dollars for broadband, new small business loan aid for broadcasters, and a provision making the theft of video streams a felony for the first time.
The House vote was 359 to 53 and the Senate vote 91 to 7.
“The Motion Picture Association and our member studios applaud Congress for passing the coronavirus relief and government funding package, which includes continued support for the film, television and streaming industry and its dedicated workforce,” said Motion Picture Association President Charles Rivkin.
“Today, as part of the sweeping omnibus bill, we are including $7 billion to assist struggling families better afford their internet service, and to help connect tribal and rural communities and students, faculty and staff of minority colleges and universities,” said House Energy & Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone (D-N.J.) and Communications Subcommittee Chairman Mike Doyle (D-Pa.). » Read More