The FCC Plans To Rip Up Local TV Station Ownership Rules

But does it even have the authority to do so?

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The FCC has today announced plans to hold a vote which, if successful, will dramatically shift the balance of power in the US TV market. On August 6, commissioners will hold a ballot to repeal Section 303 of the Communications Act, and with it the 39 percent rule. In essence, the rule limits the reach of a local TV network to no more than 39 percent of the US' total audience market. In its place, the FCC would move to a system whereby it would personally approve or reject TV ownership deals on a case-by-case basis. Which, I'm sure, would not expose the process to any sort of partisan influences or subversion given Carr has already threatened to revoke broadcast licenses if they air material critical of the government.

It's not clear if the FCC even has...

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