FCC’s Fall Agenda To Impact Broadcasters

The FCC launched two major rulemakings in late September and early October that could reshape U.S. broadcast ownership for decades, seeking to relax limits on local TV/radio stations and top-network mergers amid streaming competition.

On Sept. 30, the commission unanimously issued an NPRM to retain, modify or scrap rules capping single-entity ownership in local markets, the 39% national TV reach limit (with UHF discount), duopolies and the dual-network ban on mergers among ABC, CBS, Fox or NBC.

Broadcasters argue outdated restrictions hinder competition with tech streamers bidding for sports rights and threaten local journalism; a July 8th Circuit ruling vacated the “Top-Four Prohibition” and declared quadrennial reviews inherently deregulatory.

The NPRM seeks broad input on how streaming, online video and digital platforms impact competition, localism and diversity—without proposing specific changes.

“We intend to take a fresh approach to competition by examining the broader media marketplace,” said FCC Chair Brendan Carr, vowing to eliminate rules that no longer serve the public interest while promoting investment in local news and public safety.