The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has escalated its efforts to encourage the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to deregulate existing ownership limits on local radio and television stations. In a comprehensive 87-page document submitted on January 16, 2026, the NAB articulated that the current regulations, which have been in place for nearly a century, are outdated and ill-suited for the contemporary media landscape dominated by digital platforms and streaming services.
The NAB contends that these ownership restrictions hinder broadcasters’ ability to scale operations, attract investment, and compete effectively against unregulated digital competitors that have captured significant audience share and advertising revenue. Currently, the regulations permit a single licensee to own up to eight commercial stations in large markets, with additional limits in smaller markets. The NAB is advocating for the complete removal of these caps, arguing that they prevent broadcasters from adapting to market dynamics.
By eliminating these constraints, the NAB asserts that broadcasters would be better positioned to invest in local programming, which includes critical services such as news coverage and emergency alerts. The organization believes that deregulation would foster innovation, enhance service quality, and ensure that local stations remain relevant without imposing additional costs on taxpayers or listeners. Support for this initiative is reported from smaller operators who see the current rules as impediments to their economic sustainability.
This push for deregulation is part of the FCC’s Quadrennial Regulatory Review, which examines the necessity of broadcast ownership rules in light of evolving competition. The review encompasses local radio and television ownership limits, as well as the dual network prohibition. As the FCC progresses, the NAB urges a swift conclusion to the review process, emphasizing that removing outdated ownership limits could lead to a more balanced media ecosystem, ultimately benefiting local communities.
