Small Broadcasters Urge Protection of Ability to Air Multiple Big 4 Networks

Constraining broadcasters in small markets from airing more than one network-affiliated program schedule via a low-power TV station or multicast stream would chill investment and hamper growth, representatives of the ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox affiliates associations told aides to FCC Commissioners Brendan Carr and Geoffrey Starks, said docket 18-349 filings Monday. Using a multicast stream or LPTV station to deliver a second Big Four network in a small market isn't exploitation of a duopoly rule loophole "but instead reflects broadcast businesses that have been structured in keeping with the Commission’s current ownership rules in a way that best serves their local communities," the broadcasters said.