The quadrennial review did not make the cut for the November 30 FCC Open Meeting, but it is now being circulated among the commissioners and could be acted on without being part of such a proceeding. It is expected to loosen cross-ownership rules and little else.
According to numerous reports, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski is offering up pretty much what predecessor Kevin Martin offered up in late 2007 – allowing broadcast/print combinations in the top 20 DMAs. It is also expected to loosen cross-ownership restrictions on radio/print and radio/television combinations.
Broadcasters have been looking for the chance to create more local television combinations, but that does not appear to be in the works; nor does there appear to be much chance of further loosening of the local radio caps.
