Trump's FCC chair investigates NPR and PBS, urges Congress to defund them
Briefly

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has initiated an investigation into NPR and PBS, alleging they may be violating federal laws regarding noncommercial educational broadcasts by airing commercial advertisements. Although Carr’s letter did not specify instances of noncompliance, he emphasized that underwriting announcements should not promote products or include certain persuasive elements. Additionally, Carr expressed his opposition to government funding for these entities, suggesting that ongoing legislative discussions could lead to defunding. Various perspectives highlight concerns about media freedom and governmental influence over public broadcasting.
I am concerned that NPR and PBS broadcasts could be violating federal law by airing commercials. Carr indicated the need for an investigation into this potential misconduct.
Carr's letter did not provide any specific examples of underwriting announcements that might violate the law, but stated they should not promote contributors' products.
I do not see a reason why Congress should continue sending taxpayer dollars to NPR and PBS given the changes in the media marketplace since the passage of the Public Broadcasting Act.
This FCC investigation may prove relevant to an ongoing legislative debate, as Congress is actively considering whether to stop requiring taxpayer subsidies for NPR and PBS.
Read at Ars Technica
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