Satellite Television Extension Act of 2010

Mr. President, I am pleased that the Senate acted to pass legislation that will extend key provisions of the Satellite Home Viewer Act through the end of April. The statutory licenses and Communications Act authorizations that are contained in this act allow consumers to receive broadcast network stations by satellite. These consumers are otherwise unable to receive these signals over-the-air, and ensuring that they continue to have access to network programming is critical. I understand that the House of Representatives also took up and passed the Senate measure last night. By passing this short-term extension, we can be sure that nobody will be left in the dark while Congress is away. I look forward to a full reauthorization of this act being signed into law once we return from Easter recess.

I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of S. 3186, the Satellite Television Extension Act of 2010.

Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the bill be read three times, passed, and the motion to reconsider be laid upon the table and that any statements be printed in the Record.

Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table the bill (S. 3186) to authorize the Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act of 2004 through April 30, 2010, and for other purposes, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.