FCC Votes to Repeal National TV Ownership Cap

The Federal Communications Commission will vote on August 6 to repeal the 39% national ownership cap on TV stations, replacing it with a case-by-case review. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr argued the cap is obsolete in an era of streaming and digital media. The decision could immediately affect Nexstar, which is barred from completing its acquisition of Tegna due to the cap. Democratic FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez condemned the move as illegal, stating only Congress can change the cap. Nexstar and the National Association of Broadcasters support the repeal, while DIRECTV opposes it, citing higher prices and reduced local programming. The FCC clarified that removal does not automatically approve future deals.