Deregulation of television, cable TV, internet, and radio broadcasting has caused changes in programming.
Deregulation of media by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has caused changes in programming. Proponents of deregulation argue that deregulation promotes a healthy competitive marketplace. Opponents argue that deregulation reduces competition and has led to loss of diversity of opinion and objective media reporting.
Facts About FCC Deregulation
Deregulation of the broadcasting industry began in 1996 with the enactment of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. The Act resulted in mega-mergers of commercial TV and radio broadcasters which has led to seven communications corporations controlling more than 75 percent of the U.S. media market.
Deregulation Policies
Former FCC Chairman Kevin J. Martin has asserted that deregulation of the communications industry during his tenure was founded on a "fundamental belief that a robust, competitive marketplace" is the best method of protecting "the public interest." Furthermore, deregulation increases choices and innovation which results in lower prices for American consumers. However, he also believes that government should act when broad social objectives are not being met.
Deregulation Opposition
Media researcher Caroly Byerly suggests that deregulation has resulted in a loss of minority-related public affairs programming. Furthermore, she suggests, deregulation has resulted not only in the loss of unbiased local news coverage and public affairs programming, but it has also contributed to an increase in marketplace barriers to entry for minorities and women.
