NAB Condemns FCC’s Sudden ABC License Review Amid Kimmel-Trump Dispute

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has strongly condemned the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) decision to target ABC for an early license renewal review, citing the ongoing controversy surrounding comedian Jimmy Kimmel and former President Donald Trump.

The NAB, a leading advocacy group representing America’s broadcasters, issued a statement on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, urging industry unity as the FCC pressures Disney, ABC’s parent company, over its broadcast licenses.

NAB Slams FCC’s ‘Nearly Unprecedented’ Licensing Request

In a formal statement, Curtis LeGeyt, NAB President and CEO, criticized the FCC’s approach, calling it a departure from established regulatory norms.

“The FCC’s broadcast license renewal process must be grounded in predictability, fairness and transparency, principles reflected in the license terms Congress established and later extended.”

“The Media Bureau’s nearly unprecedented request for one company to quickly reapply for all of its licenses – rather than utilize its traditional enforcement process – runs contrary to these principles and creates significant uncertainty for all broadcasters.”

LeGeyt emphasized the broader implications for local broadcasters, which provide critical services such as journalism, emergency alerts, and election coverage.

“Broadcast stations already face intense challenges as they work to deliver trusted journalism, lifesaving emergency services, community programming and election coverage. The FCC must be careful to avoid actions that create further instability for the local stations viewers and listeners depend on.”

Industry Reaction and Broader Implications

The FCC’s move has sparked concerns within the broadcasting industry about potential overreach and the precedent it sets for future license renewals. Critics argue that the agency’s actions could disrupt the stability of local news and emergency broadcasting services.

While the controversy centers on ABC and Disney, the NAB’s statement suggests the issue may have far-reaching consequences for all broadcasters nationwide.