standard definition broadcast signals and may possibly offer interactive television services in the future. More importantly, such stations are able to "multicast" by splitting their digital signals into smaller streams each of which may be independently programmed. It is axiomatic that the digital television transmissions are much different than traditional analog transmissions. For that reason, the existing distant signal licenses, whose foundations were built upon analog broadcast technology, cannot readily accommodate the vibrant capabilities of digital television. Extended Signal Importation Opportunities SHVERA provides DBS operators with better opportunities to import distant broadcast signals into markets lacking "local-into-local" delivery of nearby signals and localities unserviced by terrestrial broadcast network signals. local-into-local means that if a satellite customer lives in an area where the satellite company has decided to provide the service, the customer can receive local TV channels. If the company decides that it will not provide local broadcast stations in an area, the consumer may still receive local broadcast stations by using an antenna or basic cable service. Retransmission of Distant Digital Network Signals SHVERA also offers DBS operators the opportunity to deliver distant digital network signals into "digital white areas" where the nearest network broadcaster does not currently offer digital content, or where adequate off-air reception does not occur. Summary The satellite and cable regulatory frameworks attempt to balance a number of longstanding, but potentially conflicting, public policy goals—most notably, localised, competitive provision of video services, support for the creative process, and preservation of free over-the-air broadcast television. They also attempt to balance the interests of the satellite, cable, broadcast, and program content industries. Congress incorporated the sunset provisions in SHVERA because of its concern that market changes could affect these balances. The statutory provisions distinguish between the retransmission of local signals—the broadcast signals of stations located in the same local market as the subscriber—and of distant signals. Provisions block or restrict the retransmission of many distant broadcast signals in order to protect local broadcasters from competition from distant signals and to provide them with a stronger negotiating position vis-à-vis the satellite and cable operators, with the intention of fostering local programming. But the regulatory framework also recognizes that U.S. households benefit from the receipt of certain distant broadcast signals and includes explicit retransmission and copyright rules for these. Ruling Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act of 1999 This Act modified the Satellite Home Viewer Act of 1988. SHVIA permits