FCC Investigates TV Ratings Over Gender Identity Content in Kids Shows

The FCC has launched an inquiry into the TV ratings system, focusing on whether gender identity themes in children's programming are being properly flagged to parents. Chairman Brendan Carr announced the proceeding on Wednesday, citing parental concerns about "ratings creep" and lack of transparency. The FCC's Media Bureau specifically questioned the rating of shows with transgender and non-binary content as appropriate for young children (TV-Y, TV-Y7, TV-G). The inquiry seeks public comment on the accuracy of the TV Oversight Management Board's guidelines and whether streaming services are more lenient than broadcasters. This follows Carr's earlier warnings to broadcasters about public interest obligations amid Trump's attacks on media coverage of the war in Iran. The 1996 law that created the voluntary ratings system and V-chip is the legal backdrop. Public comments are due May 22, reply comments June 22. The order does not address social media or children's use of platforms.