The U.S. Federal Communications Commission votes 2-1 to eliminate the long-standing national cap on broadcast TV station ownership. Multiple outlets report that the rule being repealed limits a single station group from reaching more than 39% of U.S. TV households. The FCC acts to lift the restriction that has been in place in some form since the 1941 era and that was last raised to the 39% level in 2004. The decision is described as a win for large broadcasters, including Nexstar, and is likely to intensify industry consolidation by allowing ownership groups to expand their coverage beyond the 39% threshold.
The vote is also widely characterized as contentious, with opponents expected to challenge the FCC’s action in court. Several outlets note that FCC Chair Brendan Carr and other commissioners supporting the change vote to repeal the ownership limit, while one commissioner dissenting in the 2-1 outcome signals potential legal and regulatory disputes ahead. The FCC’s move therefore changes the structure of broadcast TV ownership rules and could lead to new mergers or acquisitions.
