FCC Unanimously Approves Foreign-Sponsored Content NPRM

The FCC unanimously approved an NPRM seeking comment on proposed updates to the foreign-sponsored content rules, as expected (see 2209260063). The item is intended to update the rules to account for the July U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit decision against some of the original requirements. “This proposal will help strengthen the process for identifying foreign governments broadcasting in the United States and fill in the gaps left in the wake of the D.C. Circuit’s recent ruling,” said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel in a release. “The bottom line is that this is about supporting transparency and democratic values -- full stop.” The NPRM proposes standardized certifications from broadcasters and program lessees on whether a lessee is a foreign governmental entity, and seeks comment on an earlier petition from broadcasters seeking clarification on how the foreign-sponsored content rules apply to advertising and whether content less than two minutes in length should be exempt from the rules. It also seeks comment on an alternative first suggested by a D.C. Circuit judge that would require lessees to submit screenshots of federal databases showing their companies aren’t listed. “We look forward to working with the FCC to clarify some of its rules to ensure that broadcasters are airing the correct identifications,” said an NAB spokesperson. “We share the Commission’s goal of ensuring that the public understands when it is watching or listening to foreign propaganda.”