What is the Fairness Doctrine?

The Fairness Doctrine is a media law in Mississippi that is meant to ensure that media sources present fair, balanced, and unbiased coverage. It requires broadcast media outlets to air contrasting points of views, allowing citizens to receive multiple perspectives on an issue. The doctrine states that no media outlet can air content that is one-sided or biased; instead, they must provide access to contrasting opinions and beliefs. The doctrine has been in place since 1979, when the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) first implemented it. It was seen as a way to protect citizens from biased reporting and to give them access to different viewpoints. Due to changing technology, the FCC decided to deregulate the media industry in 1987, and the Fairness Doctrine was removed with it. However, some states have their own Fairness Doctrine regulations that are still enforced. In Mississippi, the Fairness Doctrine ensures that media sources present different sides of an issue. It also states that these sources must provide time for responses from both sides. This allows citizens to receive fair coverage, which is important to staying informed about their state.

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