FCC approves rule change allowing TV groups to own more stations

In a 2-1 vote, the Federal Communications Commission approved a proposal that eliminates the cap on how many local television stations a single ownership group may control, raising the national audience ceiling above 39% and allowing more than two stations in one market. Chairman Brendan Carr supported the measure, citing the need to preserve local journalism and economic viability as streaming platforms now account for over 40% of viewing.

He argued that outdated limits hinder stations’ ability to survive in a shifting media landscape. Anna Gomez, the commission’s sole Democrat, criticized the rule, saying it merely shifts economic pressure to larger national owners. The National Association of Broadcasters and other industry players welcomed the change, while consumer groups and some state officials warned it could trigger newsroom cuts and diminish community perspectives. Legal challenges may arise, as the FCC would gain broad discretion to assess public-interest benefits, and past disputes—such as the blocked Nexstar-Tegna merger— illustrate the contentious nature of broadcast consolidation.