What are the restrictions on broadcast media ownership?

Broadcast media ownership in California is subject to certain restrictions that are set by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Generally, the FCC restricts one company from owning more than one broadcast station in the same market. This rule, known as the “local ownership rule,” is meant to ensure that different types of media outlets and viewpoints can be heard within the same market. In addition, the FCC also restricts the number of broadcast media outlets a larger company can own in a single market. These restrictions are based on the size of the market and the number of outlets that already exist in the area. For example, in large markets, companies may only be able to own up to eight radio stations and two television stations, whereas in smaller markets, companies may be able to own up to five radio or television stations. Finally, radio and television broadcasting companies may not own or have any financial interests in newspapers in the same market. They also may not own or have any financial interests in any other media outlets in the same market, such as cable television or satellite radio. Overall, the various ownership rules are meant to ensure that different types of media outlets and viewpoints remain available to consumers in the same market. This helps to ensure that all voices in a community can be heard and that media ownership remains diversified.

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What are the restrictions on broadcast media ownership?

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