Voluntary Conversions - Final Passage Deferred

Newspapers may offer an upgrade in frequency to current subscribers. When the subscriber’s current frequency of delivery is not being eliminated (voluntary conversion), current ABC rules allow the circulation associated with the upgrade to be claimed as paid circulation provided:

• The subscriber takes an affirmative action to accept the upgrade (opt-in).
• The price paid by the subscriber for their original order is at least 25 percent or more of the basic price for the new (upgraded) frequency of delivery.

At the July 2006 meeting, the board of directors granted first passage to modify Rule C 5.13 Subscription Offer Based on Acceptance Unless Declined. This modification would eliminate the requirement for an affirmative response from the subscriber. Rather, the newspaper would be permitted to begin servicing the upgraded frequency, and then present the subscriber with a clear and conspicuous opt-out opportunity.

Final passage of this modification was deferred at the November 2006, March 2007 and July 2007 board meetings.

Until final passage is granted, all newspaper members of ABC must continue to comply with the current standards for voluntary conversions as noted above.

Updated 08/03/07