The National Association of Broadcasters is mobilizing hundreds of local broadcasters in Washington this week to lobby for significant regulatory changes. During the organization’s State Leadership Conference on March 3, President Curtis LeGeyt urged attendees to pressure lawmakers to modernize ownership rules that he claims are “extinct.” The group argues that current FCC restrictions prevent local radio stations from competing fairly against global tech platforms for advertising revenue.
On March 4, these broadcasters will meet with members of Congress to advocate for the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act and the elimination of ownership caps. Representative Richard Hudson, who chairs the House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, spoke at the event, supporting the need for broadcast rules to reflect the current digital landscape. The association maintains that these reforms are essential to preserve the future of local journalism in smaller markets.