Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the public utility regulatory arm of the United States federal government. Among other sectors, the FCC regulates broadcast television, broadcast radio, telecommunications companies and other utilities. The FCC is based in Washington, D.C.
Layoffs hit WGN newsroom as Nexstar lobbies for media consolidation
The company argues consolidation is needed to compete with streaming rivals, but critics cite prior newsroom cuts and market consolidation.
Lawmakers: Nexstar-TEGNA deal will raise cable fees by $135 million
The lawmakers said further consolidation would harm Black and minority communities by shrinking local newsrooms and reducing civic representation.
FIRST ON THE DESK
FCC Chairman Carr says broadcasters should air “pro-America programming”
The initiative suggests PSAs, historical segments and daily patriotic features, though it creates no new mandates amid heightened FCC oversight of station licenses.
FCC’s Gomez says Nexstar-TEGNA deal should get full panel vote
Gomez argued the deal conflicts with the 39 percent national ownership cap and shouldn't be scrutinized only by the Media Bureau.
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FCC chairman says agency investigating “The View” over Talarico interview
Carr recently warned talk shows may lose long-standing equal time exemptions if interviews are deemed partisan rather than newsworthy.
FCC broadcast TV ownership cap gets hearing on Capitol Hill
Lawmakers showed mixed views, balancing concerns over consolidation against fears that failing to modernize rules will further weaken local TV news.
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FCC Commissioner Gomez says agency not investigating “The View”
Gomez said a report that the agency is investigating The View is merely an intimidation tactic, not a legitimate enforcement matter.
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Senator Cruz plans hearing on FCC broadcast ownership rules
The Senate Commerce Committee will hear testimony on broadcast TV ownership rules from key stakeholders in the industry.
FCC approves transfer of five TV station licenses to Sinclair
The FCC approved five broadcast TV license transfers to Sinclair, creating duopolies in markets where it already operated stations.
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NAB threatens Congress over local TV ownership rules
The NAB warned lawmakers that opposing looser broadcast rules could carry dire political consequences in the midterm election.
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FCC Chairman says “partisan motivation” will dictate equal time enforcement
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the agency will assess a talk show’s “partisan motivation” when deciding whether equal time rules apply to political interviews.
EDITORIAL
FCC approves foreign ownership rules for radio, TV stations
The changes clarify Section 310(b) standards and aim to streamline reviews and shorten application processing times.