The U.S. Senate approved an amendment on February 26, which bans the Federal Communications Commission from reinstating the Fairness Doctrine, a rule eliminated more than 20 years ago that forced broadcasters to air both sides of a controversial issue. This amendment, which passed by a vote of 87-11, was offered to legislation granting voting rights to the District of Columbia.

Commenting on the action, NAB Executive Vice President of Media Relations Dennis Wharton issued the following statement:

"NAB applauds today's Senate vote in opposition to the inaptly-named Fairness Doctrine. Diversity of opinion has never been greater than in today's media landscape. We salute President Obama and a bipartisan majority of the Senate for opposing the return of a rule that clearly violated the fundamental free speech rights under which this country was founded."

NAB President and CEO David Rehr recently sent a letter to President Barack Obama thanking him for reiterating opposition to the Fairness Doctrine. The White House opposition was expressed two weeks ago by spokesman Ben LaBolt.

"At a time when the challenges that face our country require vigorous debate and discussion, our nation's TV and radio broadcasters provide a rich diversity of viewpoints from all sides of the political spectrum," Rehr wrote. "We applaud you and those who join you in opposing government censorship of our airways. We stand ready to work with you to defend a fundamental freedom -- the freedom of speech."

The entire letter can be read here in PDF format.