FCC to Vote on Ending National TV Ownership Cap

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is set to vote on August 6 to repeal the longstanding 39% national TV station ownership cap. This cap restricts owners from controlling stations in more than 39% of markets and will be replaced with a case-by-case review of transactions.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated that the current cap no longer reflects the modern media landscape, where national programmers can distribute content widely through streaming services and virtual cable companies. The repeal may have immediate implications for Nexstar, a major TV station owner, which has been blocked by a federal court from completing its acquisition of Tegna due to concerns over excessive control of local TV properties.

Nexstar and the National Association of Broadcasters support the FCC's initiative, arguing it will empower local stations to compete and serve their communities better. The FCC clarified that removing the cap does not guarantee approval for all future transactions, as some may not serve the public interest.