Streaming Giants Unite for D.C. Lobbying
Netflix, Amazon, and YouTube have joined forces to create a lobbying group based in Washington, D.C., aiming to address increasing concerns from lawmakers regarding the rising costs associated with streaming live sports.
Named the Streaming Access and Choice Alliance (SACA), the organization intends to “promote high-quality and high-value entertainment experiences for consumers.” It will be led by TechNet, a trade group representing the tech industry.
According to the group’s website, “The Streaming Access and Choice Alliance (SACA) was established to engage policymakers and highlight the many benefits that streaming services deliver to consumers.”
It further notes, “Amazon, YouTube, and Netflix—three companies leading the way in providing top-notch consumer and product experiences through streaming—are founding members. SACA will give the industry and consumers a voice in Washington, advocating for pro-competition policies that recognize the rapidly changing landscape while prioritizing consumers and their entertainment choices.”
Mike Ward, TechNet’s senior vice president of federal policy and government relations, commented that the industry and its customers “deserve a dedicated voice in Washington, D.C.”
Ward emphasized, “Americans want more options and flexibility in how and where they enjoy their favorite programming, which includes sports and live events. Streaming and digital entertainment companies provide audiences with better features and overall value. The industry and its customers absolutely need a robust representation in Washington, advocating for policies that foster innovation and address modern consumers’ demands.”
As highlighted by Variety, this initiative comes amid heightened scrutiny from lawmakers on sports streaming, primarily due to increasing costs.
This year, U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) introduced a new bill aimed at stopping professional sports leagues from blacking out games for fans. The legislation seeks to streamline access to games, allowing local fans to watch all their teams’ matches in a single place—either on TV or through streaming—at no cost, as reported by Variety.
