BROADCASTER RIGHTS: POLICY TRACKER
A continuously updated tracker of all active legislation and FCC proceedings affecting radio and television broadcasters. Each item shows the bill or proceeding name, current status, NAB position, and last update. Updated as new developments are reported.
Last updated: March 2026 · Sources: NAB.org, FCC.gov, Congress.gov
Spectrum Reallocation Review (FCC Proceeding)
The FCC is reviewing potential reallocation of UHF broadcast spectrum bands for 5G wireless deployment. The NAB has filed formal opposition, arguing that spectrum reallocation would devastate local TV broadcasting and eliminate free over-the-air television for millions of Americans.
Current Status
Active — Under FCC Review
NAB Position
Opposed — NAB fighting to protect broadcast spectrum from wireless carrier reallocation
ATSC 3.0 / NextGen TV Transition Framework (FCC)
The FCC voted 3-2 to adopt a framework requiring all full-power television stations to complete migration to the ATSC 3.0 NextGen TV standard. The NAB supports the transition but has advocated for sufficient lead time and financial support for smaller stations.
Current Status
Active — FCC Proceeding Ongoing
NAB Position
Supportive with conditions — NAB supports NextGen TV but seeks flexible transition timeline
AM/FM Radio Performance Royalty Legislation (Congress)
Legislation has been introduced in both chambers of Congress that would require AM/FM radio stations to pay performance royalties to record labels and artists. The NAB has mounted a major lobbying campaign against the bills, arguing that radio provides billions in free promotional value to the music industry annually.
Current Status
Active — Bills Introduced in House and Senate
NAB Position
Strongly Opposed — NAB leading coalition against mandatory performance royalties for AM/FM radio
Retransmission Consent Reform (Congressional Proposals)
Multiple proposals in Congress would reform the retransmission consent framework governing negotiations between local broadcasters and cable/satellite providers. The NAB is closely monitoring legislation that could alter the balance of power in carriage negotiations.
Current Status
Active — Congressional Discussions Ongoing
NAB Position
Monitoring — NAB supports broadcaster negotiating rights in retransmission consent
FCC Media Ownership Rule Review
The FCC is conducting its quadrennial review of media ownership rules, including cross-ownership restrictions between television stations, radio stations, and newspapers. The NAB has argued that outdated ownership caps harm local broadcasters competing against unregulated digital platforms.
Current Status
Active — FCC Quadrennial Review
NAB Position
Supportive of modernization — NAB advocates for updated ownership rules reflecting digital competition
Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) Funding Authorization
Congress is considering the reauthorization and funding levels for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which supports PBS and NPR member stations nationwide. Proposed cuts have drawn opposition from public broadcasting advocates and the NAB.
Current Status
Active — Congressional Appropriations Process
NAB Position
Supportive — NAB supports CPB funding as essential to public broadcasting infrastructure
Emergency Alert System (EAS) Modernization (FCC)
The FCC is pursuing rulemaking to modernize the Emergency Alert System, including updates to technical standards and alert distribution methods. The NAB has participated in the proceeding, emphasizing the critical role of local broadcasters in emergency communications.
Current Status
Active — FCC Rulemaking
NAB Position
Supportive — NAB supports EAS modernization while advocating for broadcaster-friendly implementation
AM Radio Preservation Act (Congress)
Bipartisan legislation would require automakers to include AM radio receivers in new vehicles, reversing a trend of manufacturers removing AM from electric vehicles. The NAB has been a leading advocate for the bill, citing AM radio's critical role in emergency communications.
Current Status
Active — Bipartisan Support in Congress
NAB Position
Strongly Supportive — NAB leading advocacy for AM radio preservation in vehicles
About This Tracker: BroadcastEngineering.com monitors NAB.org, FCC.gov, Congress.gov, and leading broadcast industry publications to track all active policy developments affecting broadcasters. For full coverage of broadcast policy and NAB advocacy, visit our Policy section.