Photo: EKIN KIZILKAYA / iStock / Getty Images
Congressman Pat Ryan, representing New York's 18th District, is renewing efforts to pass the Stop Sports Blackout Act in response to the ongoing contract dispute between YouTube TV and Disney. This dispute has resulted in the removal of popular channels like ESPN and ABC from YouTube TV since October 30. The proposed legislation aims to require cable companies to reimburse customers who lose access to channels during blackouts.
Ryan, a Democrat from Gardiner, has been vocal about the issue, urging fans to support the bill. "Pissed you can't watch Monday Night Football? Worried about missing college football Saturday?" he posted, encouraging constituents to call their representatives. Ryan argues that mega-corporations like Google and Disney are taking advantage of consumers, and it's time for Congress to act.
The blackout has left YouTube TV subscribers without access to major sports events and other programming. While YouTube TV offered to temporarily restore the channels during ongoing negotiations, the proposal has not yet materialized. In response, some subscribers have canceled their service or switched to alternatives like ESPN Unlimited or Hulu + Live TV.
The dispute has highlighted the need for legislative action, according to Ryan, who introduced the bill in January after a similar blackout involving Optimum and MSG Network affected over a million customers in the Tri-State area. That dispute was resolved in February, but the current situation remains unresolved.
As the blackout continues, YouTube TV plans to offer a $20 credit to affected subscribers if the contract dispute persists. The outcome of these negotiations and the potential passage of the Stop Sports Blackout Act could significantly impact how cable companies handle future disputes.