Knocking Out Sports Blackouts

On Tuesday night, I was honored as the “Most Valuable Policymaker” by the Sports Fans Coalition. I was joined by Congressmen Joe Barton (R-TX), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Steve Scalise (R-LA), and Brian Higgins (D-NY). Sports blackouts are unfair, anti-fan tactics used by sports leagues and television companies to extract additional profits from fans. Sports Fans Coalition is a megaphone for the fans who support teams, both financially and in spirit, and who want to know why the leagues punish them for their loyalty.

The Coalition is the mouthpiece for fans who want to know why teams get tax breaks to build new stadiums with more luxury suites and higher ticket prices. They speak for fans who want to know why, when TV companies cannot come to an agreement, the games get pulled and fans are told by one party to take their discontent to the other. These companies shouldn't treat their customers and fans as bargaining chips.

I spent a few minutes in my office today discussing the importance of this issue to fans and consumers everywhere. I hope it sheds some light on the work we are doing on this issue and I ask you to contact your elected officials and voice your support as well.

I look forward to working on the sports blackouts issue with the Sports Fans Coalition, my Congressional colleagues, and sports fans everywhere.