In Canada, the CRTC's skinny video bundle regulation has gone into effect. The mandate, first announced last March, requires all licensed TV service providers with more than 20,000 subscribers to offer an affordable basic video package, which must cost no more than $25 per month (not including equipment) and must include the following channels:
- Local and regional TV stations
- Channels of public interest such as the Cable Public Affairs Channel (CPAC) and Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN)
- Educational channels
- Community channels and services operated by provincial legislatures, where available
The basic package may also include local radio stations and some non-local video channels at no additional charge. Beyond the basic package, licensed TV service providers must offer channels either individually ("pick and pay") or in packages of up to 10 channels. By Dec. 1, 2016, TV service providers must offer both pick and pay and small packages. Canadians who are satisfied with their current services do not have to make any changes to their subscriptions.
