FCC initiates deregulatory push with fresh look at station ownership limits

The Federal Communications Commission is reopening its review of the national television multiple ownership rule, which limits the reach of broadcast television groups to no more than 39% of U.S. households.

The Media Bureau issued a public notice on Wednesday, seeking new public comments in MB Docket No. 17-318, a proceeding that had remained dormant since 2018. The review will examine whether the rule should be retained, modified or eliminated, and whether the UHF discount (allowing UHF stations to count for only half their reach toward the national cap) should continue to apply.

This action came within 24 hours of Olivia Trusty’s Senate confirmation to the FCC, which restored a Republican majority under Chairman Brendan Carr.

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