Under Chairman Brendan Carr (appointed January 2025), the FCC prioritized deregulation, empowering local broadcasters, and addressing perceived bias in media. These efforts focused on broadcast TV and radio, which remain core to news delivery, though the agency has limited direct authority over online platforms.
Empowering Local Broadcasters and Modernizing Rules
- Accelerated Next Gen TV (ATSC 3.0) transition: Promoted this technology to modernize over-the-air TV, enhancing local news and information delivery.
- Deregulation of broadcast rules: Eliminated 98 obsolete rules (some from the 1970s) to reduce burdens on broadcasters.
- Review of ownership rules: Launched the 2022 Quadrennial Review to assess local TV/radio limits and dual network restrictions, citing digital competition (e.g., streaming). This could lead to relaxed caps on station ownership in markets.
- Approved mergers with conditions: Approved Skydance's acquisition of Paramount (CBS parent), requiring commitments to viewpoint diversity in programming, measures to address bias in national news, and enhanced local reporting.
Investigations and Accountability
- Public interest obligations: Launched inquiries into network-affiliate relationships and held broadcasters accountable for obligations.
- News distortion probes: Reopened or pursued complaints against networks (e.g., CBS "60 Minutes" editing), emphasizing editorial independence while investigating alleged bias.
Other Actions
- Eliminated DEI initiatives: Rescinded prior DEI programs, advisory groups, and related priorities.
- No net neutrality reinstatement: A 2025 court ruling invalidated prior efforts to restore rules, aligning with Carr's opposition.
These initiatives emphasized localism, reduced regulation, and trust in media amid competition from digital platforms. Carr described 2025 as "historic" for advancing these goals, though critics raised First Amendment concerns over content-related actions.
For details, see FCC announcements and Carr's year-end summary.