FCC Advances Plan to Ease Mergers of TV Networks, Station Groups

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed reforms to broadcast ownership rules, including a plan that would allow the Big Four TV networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox) to merge. This move aims to ease the process of mergers between TV networks and station groups. The proposed changes would relax the longstanding prohibition on common ownership of two or more of the Big Four networks in the same market. Additionally, the FCC plans to raise the national audience reach cap for broadcasters, which currently stands at 39% of households. These reforms are intended to provide more flexibility for media companies, enabling them to adapt to the evolving media landscape and compete with digital platforms. However, critics argue that the proposed changes could lead to increased consolidation and reduced diversity in the media industry. The FCC's plan will now undergo a public comment period before a final decision is made. The outcome of this process will have significant implications for the future of the broadcasting industry.