YouTube News

YouTube, Netflix and Amazon formed Washington streaming coalition Monday

TechNet runs the Streaming Access and Choice Alliance as Prime Video and Netflix carry exclusive NFL games this season.

The Streaming Access and Choice Alliance opened Monday with YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon as founding members. TechNet, the tech industry policy network, is running the coalition. Mike Ward, TechNet's senior vice president of federal policy and government relations, is also leading the group.

"Americans want more content choices and flexibility in how and where they watch their favorite programming, including sports and other live events," Mike Ward said in a statement. He said streaming and digital entertainment companies offer audiences better features and value for their money, and that the industry deserves a dedicated voice in Washington.

The alliance said it will advocate for policies that expand access to high-quality content, preserve choice, and support innovative viewing experiences. That message arrives as Prime Video and Netflix each host exclusive NFL broadcasts this season and as broadcasters and the Federal Communications Commission push for free over-the-air sports access.

Hollywood studios and large tech firms already maintain separate lobbying arms in Washington. The Motion Picture Association represents major entertainment companies, while the 2023 Streaming Innovation Alliance brought Netflix together with Disney, Max, and Paramount but not Amazon or Google. The Internet Association, an older tech trade group, closed several years ago.

YouTube sits on the alliance alongside two subscription rivals that built much of their growth outside the legacy studio coalitions.