DIRECTV and Raycom last night agreed to a second temporary extension in their carriage agreement, preventing a blackout of more than 40 local stations for now.
The new temporary deal will extend the pact until September 12. On August 31, when the permanent agreement was set to expire, the companies agreed to an extension until last night.
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In a notice posted last night at station web sites, Raycom said the ongoing cleanup of Hurricane Harvey, and the possible impact of Hurricane Irma in the U.S. made it crucial for its local stations to remain on DIRECTV for the time being at least.
“Raycom Media stations are committed to keeping our communities informed and prepared in the days ahead, as Hurricane Irma approaches,” Pat LaPlatney, Raycom Media president and CEO, said in a statement. “Hurricane Harvey reminds us that local broadcasters are a trusted lifeline during crisis situations. Our local commitment to the safety and well-being of our viewers and consumers on all platforms is our top priority.”
DIRECTV and Raycom are fighting over how much the satcaster should pay to carry the broadcaster’s signals.
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Raycom has stations in large, mid-sized and small markets such as Tucson, Richmond, Virginia, New Orleans, Cleveland and Honolulu.
— Phillip Swann
