The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has again urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to “modernize” the local radio and TV ownership rules.
In a filing with the FCC regarding the 2022 Quadrennial Regulatory Review, the organization argued that removing ownership restrictions “would better position local radio and television stations to compete with Big Tech and deliver diverse, community-focused content.”
It argued that broadcasters “continue to be shackled by rules first crafted nearly a century ago – rules that do not apply to our competitors.”
Perhaps the strongest stance taken by the NAB in the filing is aimed at those who oppose altering the restrictions.
In the filing, the NAB argued that Newsmax — among other dissenters — “rely on mischaracterized data and legal arguments that ignore today’s competitive landscape.”
“In perhaps the most transparently insincere comments, Newsmax bemoaned that eliminating ex ante ownership rules would lead to local broadcast TV consolidation that would diminish local voices,” the NAB filing reads. “Indeed, Newsmax lamented how the loss of local newspapers has led to an increase in public and corporate malfeasance. Of course, Newsmax ignored how the FCC’s rigid newspaper/broadcast cross-ownership rule hampered local newspapers from saving themselves – and the public – from a secular demise.”
“The Commission should dismiss the arguments of those commenters urging it to the do same with TV broadcasters,” the filing continued. “Overall, Free Press, the Democracy Forward Commenters, and Newsmax adduced several studies – all of which are either miscited, mischaracterized, miss crucial context, or … well…just miss. It would be one thing if they were citing these studies to diligently identify how local TV station combinations can diminish the provision of news. But unfortunately, there is something more perilous in their position.”
Newsmax — and its CEO, Chris Ruddy — have been vocal in their opposition of the proposed merger between Nexstar Media Group and TEGNA.
In a filing with the FCC, Ruddy said, “The only thing the (FCC) will get if it alters the national television multiple ownership limit is a permanent injunction. The (FCC) lacks authority and a compelling reason to change the rule.”
The proposed merger between Nexstar Media Group and TEGNA would put the company well over the allowable limit of reaching 39% of all U.S. households. Once the deal is closed, Nexstar Media Group will then have 265 TV stations in 44 states and the District of Columbia. Additionally, it will feature outlets in 132 of the country’s 210 markets, reaching roughly 80% of all households.
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Long ago the FCC struck down the Fairness Doctrine which required media Outlets to at least try to make a good faith effort to report all sides of important issues. Years later this has produced “Silos” of broadcasters That cater to particular political groups and viewpoints, and make little or no attempt to provide balanced, fair reporting on all sides of issues of the day. (Think FOX news and MSNBC). I have already been forced to rely on foreign media outlets that at least try to offer balanced news reporting on important issues of the day. (When it comes to news, Give me The boring but more balanced Belgian television stations.) Liberalization of ownership requirements will make it even easier for rich, elite owners of a particular political persuasion to buy up or control US internet outlets and broadcast stations, and make the situation even worse.