Representatives of the state broadcasting associations are urging lawmakers to reject legislation by Rep. Nathan Deal, R-Ga., to reform retransmission consent.

The broadcasters made their case in a Tuesday letter to members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. In the letter, the broadcasters urged that retransmission consent be left alone.

“Congress should not alter a system that has evolved to benefit consumers as well as broadcasters and cable companies,” the letter said. Rep. Deal had no immediate comment.

Under retransmission consent, broadcasters can demand compensation from cable and satellite TV operators for retransmitting broadcast TV signals. Rep. Deal wants to reform the rules to clear the way for arbitration when either party to a retransmission consent negotiation feels it’s not getting a fair deal.