The National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), representing more than 1,100 Christian broadcasters, has formally opposed the FCC potential removal or relaxation of national TV ownership limits.
This stance adds to growing objections amid Nexstar Media Group's proposed $6.2 billion acquisition of TEGNA Inc., announced in August 2025. If approved, the deal would create a massive local TV conglomerate, combining Nexstar's existing portfolio with TEGNA's 64 stations to reach approximately 80% of U.S. TV households—far exceeding the current 39% national audience reach cap set by Congress.
In a recent filing with the FCC, the NRB expressed a "myriad of objections" to lifting the limits, arguing that allowing a single company to surpass the 39% threshold would harm diversity, localism, and competition in broadcasting. The association joins other critics, including media justice groups like Free Press, labor unions, public interest organizations, and lawmakers, who have petitioned the FCC to deny the merger outright. They contend the transaction is presumptively illegal under current law, as the FCC lacks authority to waive or eliminate the statutory cap, and it would violate local ownership rules in numerous markets.
The 39% cap—established in 2004 and incorporating a UHF discount that effectively allows greater real-world reach—aims to prevent excessive consolidation in broadcast television. Proponents of relaxation, including some House Republicans and broadcast industry groups like the NAB, argue the rules are outdated in a digital media landscape dominated by Big Tech and streaming platforms. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has indicated the agency may have authority to modernize the rules, while Democratic commissioners and opponents insist changes require congressional action.
The NRB's opposition highlights concerns from faith-based and community broadcasters that further consolidation could reduce diverse voices and limit access to local airwaves for religious and minority programming.
The FCC continues to review the Nexstar-TEGNA applications, public comments, and related proceedings on ownership rules, with significant debate ongoing about the cap's future. The outcome could reshape local TV ownership for years to come.