FCC Commissioner Copps proposes much tougher license renewals

[Newsjock]

http://www.radio-info.com/news_items/democratic-fcc-commissioner-copps-proposes-much-tougher-license-renewals

Michael Copps has long advocated ending so-called automatic "postcard renewals" for radio and TV licenses, and at a Thursday appearance in New York City, he proposed a strict new "public value" test. His particular focus was on broadcasters' commitment to news and public affairs. If it were up to him, Copps would require "quantifiable" amounts of news and other public service content, and even a plan for emergency news coverage in the event of disasters. Copps would also emphasize local over national programming. He repeated his familiar call to cut the current broadcast license term in half, from eight years to four years. Copps is one of five Commissioners and three Democrats on the FCC.

[wtbymark]

1. I agree with this policy

Although it doesn't apply to cable and satellite broadcasts

[mr_liberal]

2. I hate this guy.

He's one of the biggest proponents of censoring for "indecency" on the commission. My guess is that would be a part of this new law.

Theres no need for this; theres plenty of channels, places... in the media now for "public value".

I cant wait till this idiot retires.

[KharmaTrain]

3. He's Addressing Radio's #1 Problem...Access...

There's nothing in this proposal about content...this is about freeing the public airwaves from the destructive grips of its bankrupt corporate masters. He's wanting to restore news and public service programming (a back door "fairness doctrine") and give local applicants priorities in license renewals and challenges. This is a very a very big deal...long overdue.