"The only TV viewers not affected by “simsub” are the minority who still pick up over-the-air TV signals and are able to see U.S. stations that way." 

Based on what information you read, 75 to 80 percent of Canada's population lives within 100 miles of the US Border. As such, anyone with an OTA antenna can get the american signal for free.  Why not leave the choice in the hands of the viewer.  Why should a choice that's available for free not be available to paying customers?

Are they surprised people don't want to see the Cavendish potato commercial 15 times?  If CTV wants people to watch their ads, they need to step up their game!