Pocatello’s Fox 31 Will Lose FOX Network Affiliation
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(POCATELLO, ID) — As of July 1st, 2012, KFXP will no longer broadcast FOX Network programming. The FOX Network and KFXP have been unsuccessful in negotiating a new affiliate contract set to expire June 30, 2012.
According to KFXP General Manager, Shelley Goings, the network is demanding compensation from the station that exceeds its current revenue. Goings stated that the station has attempted to negotiate with FOX for many months, but the network has been unwilling to budge from its demands. Goings is disappointed to see her station lose FOX programming, but she said, “We have no choice. The rates being demanded by FOX in small markets are not seen anywhere else within the industry, including other major broadcast networks.”
The issue comes down to retransmission fees. The network believes it should be compensated by local affiliates for the right to have its programming retransmitted in their markets. It uses a formula based on the market’s total number of cable and satellite subscribers to determine the amount of compensation. In the case of KFXP’s FOX 31, the retransmission fees are higher than the advertising revenue the station currently brings in.
Similarly, the local FOX affiliate in Twin Falls will also be losing its network affiliation on July 1st. In 2011, Boise’s KTRV chose not to renew its license with FOX over retransmission fees.
FOX programming includes hit shows such as American Idol, The Simpsons, and Glee; and major sporting events like NFL football, the Daytona 500, and the World Series. At this point it is unclear if there will be a way for residents of East Idaho to view FOX programming. If you would like to voice your concern, the FOX Network can be contacted at 310-369-1000.
KFXP will continue to operate in our market. Contract negotiations are underway to bring THIS TV to KFXP. THIS TV’s program schedule relies on the extensive library of films and TV programming currently owned by MGM and subsidiary United Artists.