Radio Supports FCC Quadrennial Review
• The FCC has voted to advance the Commission’s 2022 Quadrennial Review of its broadcast ownership rules. The Commission seeks comment on whether and how the media ownership rules serve the public interest in light of emerging technologies and constantly changing media marketplace conditions.
Radio industry response has been positive with regard to the FCC’s action — NAB President & CEO Curtis LeGeyt issued a statement that reads, “We commend Chairman Carr for advancing this long-overdue proceeding to modernize outdated broadcast ownership rules. Local radio and television broadcasters continue to face outdated restrictions that hinder investment, innovation and the ability to serve their communities. Local broadcast stations remain the most accessible and trusted platforms for news, community voices and life-saving emergency alerts. Yet, stations are being forced to compete under rules written for a media landscape that no longer exists. Modernizing local ownership rules is critical to attracting capital, preserving newsroom jobs and expanding service to underserved audiences.
LeGeyt added, “This rulemaking is a critical step to ensure that local stations can compete on a level playing field with streaming platforms and digital giants. Modernizing these rules is essential to protecting the future of local journalism, and we look forward to working with the Commission to move this process forward.”
Caroline Beasley, CEO of Beasley Media Group, said, “We would like to thank Chairman Carr for moving forward with the quadrennial review on this critical endeavor. This is a defining moment for our industry to ensure that local radio can continue to fulfill its essential public service mission for decades to come. We look forward to working with the Commission to implement common-sense reforms that will allow broadcasters to compete fairly and keep serving the local audiences who rely on us every day.”
Mary G. Berner, President & CEO of Cumulus Media, commented, “We’re encouraged that Chairman Carr and the FCC are advancing the 2022 Quadrennial Review. Quickly modernizing the radio ownership rules is essential for listeners who rely on local radio every day. With updated rules, companies like ours can invest more locally, diversify our offerings, and compete effectively in today’s rapidly evolving audio landscape. We look forward to working with the Commission to make these updates.”
