FCC Regulations and Public Access Television
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates US television broadcasting to serve the “public interest, convenience, and necessity.” This includes licensing commercial and noncommercial educational stations, overseeing the transition to digital television, and ensuring programming accessibility for all viewers.
Commercial stations rely on advertising revenue, while noncommercial stations depend on contributions and grants. All stations must regularly renew their licenses, demonstrating their commitment to public service through online public files and community engagement. The public can participate in the licensing process by filing petitions or informal objections.
While the FCC doesn’t censor content, it prohibits obscene material and restricts indecent and profane content to specific hours. Political broadcasting, children’s programming, and advertising are subject to specific regulations, including candidate access, educational content requirements, and commercial limits. Stations must also accurately identify themselves and their sponsors.
Accessibility is paramount. Stations must provide closed captioning and audio description for viewers with disabilities, and ensure emergency information is accessible to both hearing and visually impaired individuals. The FCC also enforces equal opportunity employment practices and prohibits discrimination.
Stations must address complaints regarding issues like blanketing interference caused by antenna proximity. The online public file provides access to station documents, including FCC authorizations, ownership reports, EEO information, and political files. Complaints can be filed directly with the FCC or the station. Broadcast Information Specialists are available to answer questions about FCC procedures.
