US ends cap on local TV station owners amid concerns of media consolidation

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has voted to remove a 39 percent cap on the number of local broadcast television households a single owner can reach. This decision, made by a 2-1 vote, aims to help local broadcasters compete by removing what FCC Chairman Brendan Carr described as "outdated restrictions" that have contributed to the decline of local newspapers. Critics, however, argue that this move will lead to excessive media consolidation and that only Congress has the authority to lift such a cap. The FCC will now review ownership applications exceeding the previous limit on a case-by-case basis to determine if they are in the public interest.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted 2-1 along party lines to overturn a rule limiting media conglomerates from owning TV stations reaching more than 39% of U.S. households. FCC Chair Brendan Carr and Commissioner Olivia Trusty supported the repeal, arguing it would help local broadcasters compete and restore balance against national programmers. Democratic Commissioner Anna Gomez dissented, calling the vote unlawful and a departure from congressional intent, predicting negative consequences for local journalism. This decision is seen as a win for companies like Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar, who aim to expand their national reach. Advocacy groups criticized the move, warning of increased media consolidation and a decline in local news.