FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington, DC–Consumers Union praised the Senate Commerce Committee's vote today to overturn the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) media ownership rules that would permit a newspaper and television station to be owned by the same company in the same media market.
"We support the efforts of Senator Dorgan to send a clear signal to the FCC that media consolidation in markets that lack strong competition should not be permitted," said Gene Kimmelman, Vice President of Federal and International Policy for Consumers Union. "While careful implementation of the Commission's new rules should prevent the most dangerous mergers, including News Corp.'s efforts to acquire Newsday, it is critical that Congress weigh in to make sure that all consolidation which threatens competition and diversity of media is prevented," added Kimmelman.
On Dec. 18, 2007, the FCC voted on to eliminate the current ban on newspaper/television cross ownership. The "Resolution of Disapproval" approved by the Senate Commerce Committee today will reverse the FCC's decision if passed in both the House and Senate and signed by the president.
Contact: Jennifer Fuson: (202) 462-6262
