Weigel Broadcasting has voiced strong concerns regarding the A3SA (ATSC 3.0 Security Authority) and its significant influence over the next-generation broadcast television standard. They argue that the organization operates as a private regulator with the power to effectively cut off broadcast signals.
In an August 27, 2025 filing with the Federal Communications Commission, Weigel, a Chicago-based broadcaster, detailed how A3SA—owned and controlled by major networks including ABC, CBS, Fox, NBCUniversal, and Univision—mandates that all ATSC 3.0 receivers obtain its certification, even for unencrypted content. The core of Weigel’s complaint centers on A3SA’s “High Noon” requirement. This mandates that certified receivers verify A3SA-issued signaling certificates before displaying any broadcast signal. Failure to possess a valid certificate leads to complete signal blockage or persistent warning messages rendering viewing impractical.
“A3SA and its owners are empowered to shut down receivers from displaying broadcast signals that fail to meet whatever ‘security’ and other demands A3SA might choose to implement,” wrote Weigel executives Evan Fieldman and Kyle Walker in their filing. The High Noon deadline, initially set for June 30, 2025, was postponed in March for undisclosed reasons.
Weigel’s August 2025 tests using televisions from HiSense, LG, TCL, Samsung, and Sony, plus converter boxes from various manufacturers, revealed varying levels of signal interruption. Many devices displayed full-screen warnings interrupting viewing, citing a “security risk.” Some, like Sony’s X90J, completely blocked uncertified signals. HiSense and TCL models allowed temporary acceptance of warnings, but messages reappeared with channel changes. Zinwell converter boxes showed overlay messages urging device restarts. Only LG televisions and certain converter boxes consistently displayed signals, though lacking post-High Noon simulation functionality.
A3SA’s system demands annual certificates from broadcasters at $998 per station. Unlike internet certificate authorities offering numerous providers, A3SA is virtually the sole source for certificates compatible with certified ATSC 3.0 receivers. A3SA urges broadcasters to obtain certificates immediately, stating that “broadcasters should begin signing their signals as soon as possible” and “broadcasters need to start installing signing ASAP.”
Weigel points out the lack of transparency in A3SA's agreements with broadcasters, requiring non-disclosure agreements before discussing certification terms. This creates a significant hurdle for ATSC 3.0 adoption, as receiver manufacturers must incorporate A3SA’s digital rights management (DRM) standards for compatibility with major networks. This market pressure compels other broadcasters to seek A3SA certification, regardless of their DRM intentions. “From Weigel’s perspective, the A3SA’s requirements constitute private regulation of broadcasting,” the company stated. “A3SA ‘certificates’ will function as if they were FCC broadcast licenses in the sense that broadcasters cannot transmit without them.”
Weigel argues that A3SA operates without government oversight yet holds the authority to shut down licensed stations for any reason, including non-compliance with its private rules. Weigel opposes mandated ATSC 3.0 adoption and the elimination of the “substantially similar” requirement safeguarding over-the-air service during the transition. While acknowledging the potential for DRM-based monetization, Weigel stresses its commitment to free over-the-air television.
The FCC filing highlights ongoing debates about ATSC 3.0 governance and the balance between technological progress and maintaining accessible, free broadcast television.