WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the release of a report by the House Judiciary Antitrust Subcommittee about alleged antitrust violations by digital platforms, the following statement can be attributed to NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith:
“NAB thanks Chairman Cicilline and the House Judiciary Antitrust Subcommittee for its important investigation into the dominant competitive power of digital technology platforms. We applaud the Subcommittee for examining the challenges this presents to local media outlets, including radio and TV broadcasters, as they compete online for advertisers and audiences, and the impact on the future of local journalism. America’s broadcasters are committed to working with the Subcommittee and Congress on bipartisan solutions that level the playing field and preserve local journalism.”
On background: NAB filed comments with the Subcommittee in September asserting that the dominant marketplace power of these platforms puts local broadcast radio and television stations at a competitive disadvantage for advertising revenue and impedes broadcasters’ ability to effectively monetize their own content online.
On pages 57-73 of its report, the Subcommittee addressed the effect the tech platforms' overwhelming competitive power has on local media outlets’ ability to invest in, produce and deliver local news and information. Potential legislative reforms are included on pages 387-389.
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