Broadcast Association: FCC Review of Disney Licenses Brings Significant Uncertainty to the Entire Industry
The National Association of Broadcasters stated on Wednesday that the Federal Communications Commission's requirement for Disney-owned ABC to renew its licenses ahead of schedule has brought "significant uncertainty" to all broadcasters. The FCC ordered Disney on Tuesday to submit renewal applications for eight local television stations it owns, licenses originally set to expire between 2028 and 2031, and now required within 30 days. The FCC stated that this move is related to its investigation into Disney's diversity policies and potential violations.
This decision follows the latest dispute between the White House and ABC late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel. Kimmel joked about First Lady Melania Trump on his show, prompting strong criticism from President Trump.
The National Association of Broadcasters pointed out in a statement: “The FCC’s Media Bureau requiring a company to quickly reapply for all of its licenses is almost unprecedented, violates the fairness and transparency principles of the licensing process, and brings significant uncertainty to all broadcasters.”
There are also divisions within the FCC, with the agency’s sole Democratic commissioner, Anna Gomez, criticizing the move as “unprecedented, unlawful, and pointless,” calling it a “political stunt.” Disney, for its part, said it is confident of obtaining a renewal and is prepared to respond through legal channels.
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