FCC votes to eliminate national TV ownership cap

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted 2-1 on August 6, 2026, to eliminate the national TV ownership cap, which previously restricted a single broadcaster from owning stations that reach more than 39% of U.S. TV households. This decision allows local broadcasters to merge and increases the potential reach of single ownership groups. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated that the cap was outdated and hindered broadcasters' ability to compete with technology firms and streaming services. The FCC indicated that future deals will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to ensure they meet public interest standards. A spokesperson for Nexstar, a broadcasting company, expressed that the removal of the cap would enable local broadcasters to compete more effectively and continue investing in local journalism. However, the vote does not resolve an ongoing antitrust lawsuit concerning Nexstar's $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna, which is currently paused pending legal review. Commissioner Anna Gomez, the dissenting vote, argued that Congress had removed the FCC's authority to adjust the ownership cap. Consumer advocacy groups are expected to challenge the FCC's decision legally.