What restrictions are placed on foreign media owners?

In Washington, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates foreign media ownership to protect diversity in the media, ensure that U.S. citizens have access to a variety of news sources, and to prevent foreign governments from controlling or influencing the media, which could potentially threaten national security. To prevent foreign media ownership, the FCC places restrictions on their ownership of U.S. broadcast TV and radio stations. The FCC limits foreign entities to no more than 20% ownership interest of any and all U.S. broadcast TV and radio stations. Foreign entities may also not serve as trustees of any U.S. broadcast licensee or serve as directors or officers of any U.S. broadcast licensee. In addition, the FCC also requires foreign media owners to obtain a "Declaration of Eligibility" from the FCC prior to their implementation of a media ownership. This document must be filed with the FCC by the foreign media entity and it must provide evidence that the foreign entity is eligible for the ownership of a U.S. broadcast station. Furthermore, foreign entities must receive FCC approval before they can transfer, lease, assign, or sell any of their U.S. broadcast station assets. These transfers and sales must be approved on a case-by-case basis to ensure they are held in the best interest of the U.S., ensuring diversity, competition, the public interest, and the public safety. Thus, the FCC places a number of restrictions on foreign media owners to protect U.S. interests and ensure that media ownership remains diverse and free of foreign government interference.

Related FAQs

What is the media industry's code of ethics?
How is media law used to protect intellectual property rights?
What is the role of public media in promoting public discussion?
What are the different types of media regulation?
What are the laws governing media?
How does media law relate to the Freedom of Information Act?
What are the laws pertaining to advertising?
How do local media outlets influence media law?
What are the laws protecting the news media from libel?
What are the legal restrictions on media access to children?

What restrictions are placed on foreign media owners?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts