The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has made a significant decision regarding Nexstar Media Group’s takeover of WPIX-TV in New York. The FCC determined that the acquisition violated federal limits on station ownership. As a result, Mission Broadcasting, Nexstar’s partner in WPIX, has been ordered to sell the station. Alternatively, Nexstar could bring the station under its ownership and shed other stations in its portfolio to ensure compliance with ownership regulations.
This decision comes with a hefty fine of $1.2 million imposed on Nexstar. The media company has responded by stating they will vigorously dispute the decision. WPIX, known for being a fixture in New York media, became an affiliate of The CW in 2006 under Nexstar’s operation through a local marketing agreement with Mission. This agreement has raised concerns as a potential workaround to ownership rules.
Nexstar CEO, Perry Sook, believes that the company has always complied with FCC regulations and emphasized the importance of such agreements in maintaining a competitive media marketplace. However, Comcast has filed a complaint alleging that Nexstar is clearly violating FCC rules.
FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has underlined the strict prohibition on companies owning or controlling broadcast stations that reach more than 39% of the national television audience. While Republican commissioner Brendan Carr has expressed concerns about the ruling, citing previously approved features of the relationship and advocating for a reasonable reliance on past FCC decisions.
This development in the media landscape highlights the ongoing challenges and regulations faced by companies in the broadcasting industry. The future ownership of WPIX-TV remains uncertain as Nexstar and Mission Broadcasting navigate the repercussions of the FCC’s decision.
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