NAB Calls On FCC for Complete Overhaul of R/TV Regs

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has submitted a detailed proposal to the FCC as part of the FCC's "Delete, Delete, Delete" initiative, which seeks public input on deregulation in line with recent executive orders. 

The NAB's filing calls for a major overhaul of local radio ownership rules, arguing that outdated regulations hinder broadcasters' ability to invest in local journalism and compete with unregulated digital platforms, ultimately impacting community service.

Curtis LeGeyt

NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt stressed the need for rules that reflect today’s media landscape, not decades past, to revitalize local media through greater flexibility in ownership and operations. The proposal urges the FCC to eliminate or loosen restrictions on he number of radio stations one entity can own in a market, claiming these limits stifle growth and investment.

The filing also addresses other reforms, including reducing unnecessary paperwork, updating children’s television programming rules, and easing the industry’s transition to ATSC 3.0, a next-generation broadcast standard for improved quality and interactivity. NAB sees these changes as vital to keeping broadcasters competitive with digital platforms.

The FCC’s initiative offers a chance to align regulations with the digital age, and NAB’s proposal pushes for changes to ensure broadcasters can thrive and serve communities effectively. The FCC is reviewing the comments, with decisions expected in the coming months that could reshape the broadcasting industry, fostering innovation and growth for local radio and TV stations nationwide.

To view NAB’s full comments, click here.