Several groups lobbied the FCC this week to oppose the merger of the satellite companies or impose conditions on the deal if approved.
Georgetown Partners and Rainbow PUSH Coalition leader Jesse Jackson met with FCC Chairman Martin and Commissioners Copps, Adelstein and McDowell.
During the meetings, the group urged that a combined Sirius/XM entity lease a portion of its infrastructure and at least 20 percent of channel capacity on a permanent basis to a minority-controlled entity “to create competition and diversity in the satellite radio market,” according to ex parte filings at the commission. Georgetown has proposed providing a free, advertiser-supported service; customers would buy the necessary receivers. RW reported on Georgetown’s efforts in November.
The satellite radio companies have opposed giving some of their spectrum to a third satcaster.
