NAB Argues Againt Newspaper/TV Cross-Ownership Rules

A newspaper that has “closed its doors” can no longer be a “voice” for viewpoint diversity purposes, NAB said in an FCC ex parte filing arguing against the newspaper/broadcast cross-ownership rule. “Retaining a rule that deters investment by broadcasters in the struggling print newspaper industry certainly cannot serve the public interest.” The increased options for consuming news on the internet make the rule outdated, NAB said in docket 14-50. “The only result that can rationally be expected from the continued prohibition is to hasten the demise of print newspapers.” A draft order wouldn't fully lift the cross-ownership ban (see 1606280056).