In response to the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) recent notice of inquiry regarding broadcast ownership, NAB urged the FCC to approach its review of the local ownership restrictions with an eye toward maintaining the vibrancy of America's radio and television stations. NAB contended that fair and rational rules allow local broadcasters to continue to provide the many vital, free services that all Americans have come to expect, including local news and emergency journalism.

Faced with dramatically changed market circumstances, NAB supported changed ownership rules that would (1) eliminate restrictions on the cross-ownership of newspapers and broadcast outlets; (2) reform the television duopoly rule to allow the formation of duopolies in markets of all sizes; (3) support relaxation of the current radio ownership levels set by Congress nearly 15 years ago in a less competitive marketplace; and (4) adopt flexible, market-based approaches for encouraging new entry into the broadcast industry, such as incubator and other programs designed to promote opportunities for members of minority groups, women and other new entrants.