Ok. I don't see a problem with that. I do have a problem with the legal system being used to prop up industry(s) that are otherwise no longer viable.

I don't know enough about this specific case to judge. But, by in large that is what copyright law has been used to do for last 20+years.

By statute, broadcasters can choose whether a) local cable companies are required to carry their networks [which is why public access still exists], or b) to negotiate for the rate, which lets the cable company walk away if they cannot come to terms.