NAB Legal Guide to Broadcast Law and Regulation, 6th Edition

Appendix 25E FCC v. National Citizens Committee for Broadcasting

436 U.S. 775 (1978)

The Case

In 1975, the FCC created a new rule barring the common ownership of a radio or television broadcast station and a daily newspaper in the same market. The FCC established this cross-ownership ban to promote greater diversity in media ownership, which the agency argued would lead to greater diversity in content as well.

Several broadcast and newspaper organizations challenged the decision in court. Among other arguments, the parties contended that the new restrictions exceeded the FCC’s authority under the Communications Act of 1934 and violated the First Amendment. The Supreme Court unanimously rejected these arguments and upheld the FCC’s rule. ...