Sens Luján, Rosen, Markey Introduce Legislation to Prevent the Political Weaponization of the FCC, Protect First Amendment

Sens Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA) announced the introduction of the Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act, legislation that would prohibit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from revoking broadcast licenses or taking action against broadcasters based on the viewpoints they broadcast. The legislation would reaffirm the importance of the independence of the FCC, including that the President should not mandate the FCC’s agenda. Reps Doris Matsui (D-CA), Nanette Barragán (D-CA), and Jennifer McClellan (D-VA) lead companion legislation in the House. Specifically, the Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act would:

• Explicitly state that the FCC is an independent agency and that they must not use their authority to execute politically motivated attacks against licensees.
• Prohibit the FCC from taking action (including revoking any license or authorization) against any person based on the viewpoints disseminated.
• Prohibit the FCC from placing conditions based on viewpoint disseminated on any transaction approval.