The distinction is subtle but I believe it's the most important. Currently comcast is allowed to decide what channels to offer you as part of the basic connecti

The distinction is subtle but I believe it's the most important. Currently comcast is allowed to decide what channels to offer you as part of the basic connection fee (aside from OTA requirements). By putting the decision in the hands of the networks themselves to decide whether to be a default channel or a premium channel, it changes the landscape significantly. It also changes networks incentives to fight for or against being bundled with certain other channels.