National Association of Broadcasters optimistic on content regulations

David Rehr, president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters, is cautiously optimistic the Obama administration will ease some of the pressure and uncertainty that have hovered over TV and radio in recent years concerning appropriate content. Television and radio have been nervous about running afoul of the FCC since the Janet Jackson moment at the 2004 Super Bowl triggered a wave of high-profile outrage over broadcast content. Congress increased indecency fines tenfold, to $325,000, and the FCC handed down several fines. Rehr says he sees indications that the FCC will shift its focus, letting broadcasters spend less time looking over their shoulders. Rehr stresses he isn't advocating an anything-goes policy. He just thinks the marketplace and broadcasters usually can sort out appropriate content themselves.