Local television multiple ownership rule

Definition

The local television multiple ownership rule is a regulation that restricts the number of television stations one entity can own within a specific local market. This rule aims to promote diversity in media ownership and ensure a variety of viewpoints are available to viewers, preventing monopolistic practices that could arise from excessive consolidation in the broadcasting industry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The local television multiple ownership rule was implemented by the FCC to limit concentration of media ownership and promote localism in broadcasting.
2. Under this rule, an entity can own two television stations in the same market only if at least one of the stations is not among the top four rated stations.
3. This regulation was designed to maintain a diverse range of voices and viewpoints in local news coverage, which can be affected by consolidation.
4. Changes to this rule have been debated over the years, reflecting ongoing tensions between the goals of media diversity and the interests of large media corporations.
5. Violations of the local television multiple ownership rule can result in penalties for broadcast license holders, including fines or loss of licenses.

Review Questions

• What is the primary purpose of the local television multiple ownership rule, and how does it impact media diversity?
  • The primary purpose of the local television multiple ownership rule is to prevent monopolistic practices by limiting how many TV stations one entity can own in a specific local market. This restriction is crucial for maintaining a diverse media landscape, ensuring that multiple viewpoints are represented in local news coverage. By promoting competition among broadcasters, the rule supports a healthy exchange of information and ideas, benefiting viewers with varied content.
• Discuss the implications of the local television multiple ownership rule on smaller media companies and local journalism.
  • The local television multiple ownership rule directly affects smaller media companies by restricting their ability to compete with larger corporations that may own multiple stations within a market. This can lead to challenges for local journalism, as smaller outlets may struggle to survive in an environment dominated by larger entities with more resources. However, the rule is intended to encourage diversity and ensure that local voices are not drowned out by national or corporate interests.
• Evaluate how changes in technology and consumer behavior might challenge the effectiveness of the local television multiple ownership rule in today's media landscape.
  • As technology evolves and consumer behavior shifts towards digital platforms and streaming services, the relevance and effectiveness of the local television multiple ownership rule face new challenges. Viewers are increasingly consuming content online rather than through traditional broadcast channels, which may diminish the impact of ownership regulations on audience diversity. Furthermore, with growing concerns about misinformation and media bias online, there is an argument that regulatory frameworks need to adapt to address these issues beyond just traditional television ownership, fostering a broader approach to ensuring diverse media representation.

Related terms

Media Consolidation: The process where fewer companies own more media outlets, leading to reduced competition and diversity in content.

FCC: The Federal Communications Commission, the U.S. government agency responsible for regulating interstate and international communications, including television broadcasting.

Cross-Ownership: A practice that allows a single entity to own multiple types of media outlets, such as radio and television stations, in the same market.