Public Interest Groups Move to Block Backroom FCC-Disney Settlement Over ABC Licenses

In the fight over the license renewals of eight Disney-owned ABC television stations, the Media Action Center and Frequency Forward filed a Petition to Deny at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The petition demands that the FCC grant Disney's renewal applications immediately, but warns that if Disney agrees to restrict its speech or editorial independence to secure those renewals, the groups will seek license revocation. By filing a Petition to Deny, petitioners become parties to the proceedings, can shine a spotlight on any negotiations, and have standing to appeal FCC decisions in court. The petition is accompanied by declarations from viewers in the affected stations' broadcast markets to establish standing. By filing a Petition to Deny, the groups receive procedural rights that informal commenters lack and it preserves a pathway to challenge the FCC's actions in court, if necessary. By becoming a party to the proceeding, the petitioners are also guaranteed access to all communications between the parties and commit to making any communication not submitted in FCC Docket No. 26-131 available for public review.