The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) plans to vote in August on a proposal to eliminate the 39% national audience cap for television station ownership. The FCC will replace the decades-old rule with a case-by-case review process. This process will determine if station acquisitions serve the public interest.
Proponents argue the change will allow traditional broadcasters to better compete with large streaming and digital media companies. The Walt Disney Company, which owns the ABC network and eight local stations, could acquire more stations in major markets if the cap is lifted. However, the move may also lead to further consolidation among affiliate station groups. This could create larger entities for networks like ABC to negotiate with.