Conservative Groups Urge FCC to Update Broadcast Ownership Rules
More than 20 advocacy groups and public figures are calling on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to modernize its media ownership regulations. In a letter sent on May 14 to FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr, the coalition—led by Heritage Action for America—argues that current rules are outdated and hinder local broadcasters from competing fairly in today’s digital media environment.
The letter points to specific policies, including the local television duopoly rule, the limit on local radio station ownership, and the national 39% reach cap for television, as examples of regulations that were designed for a different era. According to the letter’s signatories, these restrictions are now limiting innovation and investment across the industry.
Support for the reform effort also came from the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB). NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt expressed appreciation for the growing calls to update these rules, emphasizing that both viewers and broadcasters would benefit. “Outdated ownership caps are holding back local stations at a time when competition from digital platforms is stronger than ever,” he said. “Modernizing these rules would help ensure communities continue to receive trusted news, local content, and live sports.”
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