Legal News
Policy-related stories involving the broadcasting, streaming, advertising, measurement and journalism industries. Includes public service journalism on press freedom issues, government agencies and international affairs.
FCC to eliminate broadcast ownership rule in August
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has already voiced his support for eliminating the broadcast ownership cap, and the measure is certain to pass during the August vote.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, lawmakers to appear at The Hill Summit this week
The lead official at the FCC is one of several policy officials and lawmakers expected to participate in the one-day summit on Wednesday.
Former Fox News host Pete Hegseth declares war on journalism
In an unprecedeted action, the Pentagon and the Department of Justice are partnering on efforts to crack down on legitimate news reporting based on leaked information.
PRESS FREEDOM
Former WOOD-TV reporter leaked info about controversial Pride Month memo, Nexstar says
An investigation determined two WOOD-TV journalists disclosed the memo without authorization; the memo also led to the firing of two news directors who wrote and distributed it.
FIRST ON THE DESK
Appeals court tosses challenge to FCC’s approval of Nexstar-TEGNA deal
The court found the FCC is under no statutory obligation to issue a speedy full commission vote on Nexstar's merger with TEGNA.
ABC renews call for FCC to reaffirm equal time waiver for “The View”
ABC contends "The View" continues to satisfy the FCC's longstanding criteria for the news interview exemption under the equal time rule.
FCC: Personal use of Signal by Chairman Carr, others doesn’t violate policies
The matter crept up in a FOIA-related lawsuit filed by a journalist and a public interest group seeking records about Carr's communications during last summer's Jimmy Kimmel scandal.
FIRST ON THE DESK
Echostar CEO Hamid Akhavan resigns following Dish DBS bankruptcy
Echostar founder Charlie Ergen will inherit most of Akhavan's day-to-day tasks, the company told federal regulators. He will remain at the company as an advisor through the end of the year.
No justice for Lyra McKee: Men found not guilty in journalist’s killing
After a bench trial, a judge said there was not enough evidence to convict the three self-proclaimed militia members of murder.
Supreme Court denies reporter Catherine Herridge’s bid to avoid fines over confidential sources
The decision means the former Fox News reporter is on the hook for $800 in fines until she complies with a lower court's order to disclose her sources.
Gomez criticizes dismissal of challenge against FCC’s news distortion policy
The original petition, backed by former FCC leaders including Tom Wheeler and Mark Fowler, sought repeal of the news distortion rule, claiming it chills editorial independence.
FIRST ON THE DESK
Dish Network parent files Chapter 11 bankruptcy, Dish Wireless to formally shut down
As part of the Chapter 11 process, Dish will formally shut down its Dish Wireless business unit; subsidiaries like Dish Network and Sling TV will operate as normal.