FCC Wants Public Input On Radio, TV Regulations

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has involved the public in reevaluating its regulations concerning local broadcasters. 

Announced by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, this effort, dubbed "Delete, Delete, Delete," seeks to identify and potentially eliminate or revise outdated rules that may hinder local television and radio stations. The initiative reflects a broader goal of modernizing FCC policies to ensure that local broadcasters can continue to serve their communities effectively in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

The FCC is encouraging public participation by accepting comments through April 14, 2025, inviting individuals to suggest which regulations should be updated or removed. 

Brendan Carr

Chairman Carr has emphasized that many existing rules were established in an era when traditional broadcasters faced less competition from digital platforms and Big Tech. He argues that these regulations may now impose unnecessary burdens, potentially stifling innovation and limiting broadcasters' ability to provide essential services like local news, emergency coverage, and community-focused content.

This call for public input comes at a time when local broadcasters are grappling with economic challenges and competition from online media. The FCC aims to alleviate regulatory pressures that could threaten the viability of these stations, which remain critical for delivering information tailored to specific communities. By soliciting feedback, the agency hopes to align its policies with current technological and market realities, ensuring that local broadcasters can thrive while continuing to fulfill their public interest obligations.

The initiative has garnered attention from industry groups like the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), which has urged the FCC to update ownership rules to help stations compete with digital giants. Public comments can be submitted via an online portal, and the process is seen as a step toward balancing deregulation with the FCC’s mandate to promote the public interest, convenience, and necessity in broadcasting. This effort underscores a broader conversation about how federal oversight can adapt to support local media in an increasingly digital world.