NAB Urges Action on Outdated Broadcast Ownership Rules Following FCC Oversight Hearing

Following today’s Senate Commerce Committee oversight hearing with Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr, President and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters, Curtis LeGeyt, issued the following statement:

“Today’s hearing underscored what local broadcasters have been saying for years: the rules governing television and radio ownership are badly outdated and no longer reflect the competitive realities of today’s media marketplace.

“Local stations are competing every day against unregulated global tech and streaming giants that face none of the constraints imposed on broadcasters. That imbalance makes it harder for stations to invest in local journalism, weather coverage, emergency information and the live sports programming that communities rely on.

”We appreciate Chairman Carr’s willingness to confront these issues head-on and his recognition that policymakers have the power to modernize the rules before more local voices are lost. NAB looks forward to working with Chairman Carr to strengthen local broadcasting, preserve competition and ensure communities continue to have access to trusted, local news and information.“

Calls to modernize these rules have been echoed by a broad coalition of broadcast companies, the House and Senate, as well as right of center and community groups, all urging policymakers to level the playing field so broadcasters can continue to grow and serve their communities.

The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America’s broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at nab.org.