US FCC lifts local TV ownership cap, sparking consolidation fears

The US Federal Communications Commission voted 2-1 to rescind the 39 percent cap on local TV station ownership, replacing it with a case-by-case review. Critics, including the sole Democratic commissioner and media watchdogs, argue the move will lead to excessive media consolidation and exceeds the FCC's legal authority. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr says the change helps local broadcasters survive amid declining local newspapers.