WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) today announced major milestones in its campaign urging Congress and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to modernize decades-old broadcast ownership rules. With outdated restrictions putting local stations at a disadvantage against global Big Tech companies, NAB’s campaign underscores what is at stake for local viewers: access to trusted news, emergency information and the live sports that bring communities together.
Since April, NAB’s campaign has aired nearly a quarter million television and radio spots across 192 media markets, generating more than 1 billion impressions and $43 million in airtime from TV and radio stations. That reach has translated into action: supporters have sent more than 174,000 emails and 34,000 tweets directly to members of Congress and FCC commissioners, demonstrating strong public demand for modernized rules that allow free, local broadcasting to compete with Big Tech.
New creative just released highlights one of the most pressing issues facing consumers: the risk of losing live sports on free broadcast channels. A national survey of likely voters conducted in August confirms strong, bipartisan support for keeping sports on local broadcast stations. Among respondents with a firm opinion, an overwhelming 83% said they prefer games on broadcast compared to just 17% who prefer paid streaming – a preference consistent across every demographic and political affiliation.
“Local stations are serving communities with live sports, trusted local news and life-saving emergency coverage — all available for free to every American,” said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt. “But outdated rules are shackling these stations from growing and innovating at a time when Big Tech operates with limitless scale and zero public interest obligations. Consumers deserve more — not fewer — local journalists on the ground and live sporting events accessible without a subscription. The FCC must act quickly to level the playing field so broadcasters can continue investing in the content communities rely on most.”
Background
For decades, broadcasters have operated under ownership rules written in the analog era – including a national television ownership limit and restrictions on how many stations a company can own – that apply only to broadcasters and not to their digital competitors. These outdated regulations were crafted long before cable, streaming and digital platforms reshaped the media marketplace. While Big Tech companies expand without limit, broadcasters are constrained in their ability to invest in local journalism, innovate with new technologies and maintain access to free programming that Americans depend on. Calls to modernize these rules have been echoed by state broadcaster associations, the House and Senate, right of center and community groups, all urging policymakers to level the playing field so broadcasters can continue to grow and serve their communities.
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at nab.org.
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