Since the advent of television, Americans have been able to access broadcast programming over-the-air via an antenna. With conversion to digital broadcasts in the last decade, location of an antenna where there is a strong signal is now more critical. In addition, consumers can now watch programs on a wide variety of gadgets, including devices such as smart phones and tablets.
The recent Supreme Court ruling is troubling because it eliminates an innovative option for access to broadcast signals, which would be especially beneficial in rural areas where digital signals are weaker. Legislation needs to be passed that allows any American to send TV broadcasts from their own antenna to their own devices, regardless of the antenna's location, whether it is leased and the type of device.