FCC ends 39% TV ownership cap in 2-1 vote

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted 2-1 to eliminate the National Television Ownership Rule on August 6, 2026.2,1 The rule, in place for 24 years, capped national TV station ownership at 39% of US TV households.2,1 The FCC replaced the cap with a case-by-case review process for future ownership applications.1

FCC Chair Brendan Carr and Commissioner Olivia Trusty, both Republicans, voted to end the ownership cap.2 The vote followed a contentious process with strong opposition from Democratic commissioners and outside groups.4 The FCC claimed authority to repeal the limit despite it being set by Congress over two decades ago.1

The decision is expected to enable greater industry consolidation among major broadcast groups.5,3 Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group are cited as likely beneficiaries of the rule change.3 The FCC's two Republican commissioners supported the repeal, while the Democratic commissioner opposed it.2,1

The vote marks the end of a decades-old policy designed to limit media concentration in broadcast television.5,1 The FCC stated the change would allow for more flexible ownership structures in the broadcasting sector.5 Critics argued the repeal could reduce local media diversity and increase corporate control of news content.4