The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has launched a public affairs campaign calling on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to update media ownership regulations that the organization argues prevent local television and radio stations from competing with major digital platforms.
“This campaign underscores the urgent need to modernize outdated FCC ownership regulations that put the future of local radio and TV stations at risk,” said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt. “In today’s media environment, local broadcasters must have the ability to grow and compete with Big Tech platforms that operate without similar restrictions.”
The NAB’s initiative includes national advertising aimed at policymakers in Washington, D.C., as well as educational efforts to inform viewers and listeners about the issue. The campaign will also provide resources to encourage public engagement with lawmakers, the White House, and the FCC.
The current FCC ownership rules were written before the rise of the internet and mobile technology. As a result, broadcasters remain subject to restrictions that digital platforms such as YouTube, Amazon, and Spotify do not face.
“While broadcasters are eager to compete and further invest in trusted local journalism and critical emergency coverage, outdated ownership rules hold them back,” the NAB stated. “Modernizing these regulations would give local stations the flexibility to grow, innovate and better serve their communities keeping the content Americans love – like local news and sports on free, local channels.”
The campaign launch coincides with NAB’s State Leadership Conference next week, during which more than 500 broadcasters will gather in Washington, DC, to advocate for regulatory reform.
The campaign also comes as the FCC, under Chairman Brendan Carr, reviews its media ownership regulations. Carr has previously called this a “break glass moment for America’s broadcasters,” emphasizing the need to “make it easier for broadcasters to attract the capital necessary for them to invest, compete and serve their local communities.”
The NAB argues that unless action is taken soon, local broadcasters will continue to face disadvantages in an evolving media landscape. LeGeyt underscored the role of local stations as “trusted sources of news and information, particularly during emergencies,” and urged policymakers to act before “it’s too late.”
With its new initiative, the NAB aims to build momentum for reform and rally support for what it sees as long-overdue changes to the regulatory framework governing local broadcast ownership.
You must be logged in to post a comment.