Major Networks Appeal FCC Rulings
The major TV networks are appealing recent FCC rulings that found violations of indecency rules on such popular shows as “The Early Show” and “N.Y.P.D. Blue”. ABC, Fox, CBS, NBC and the Hearst-Argyle group say the FCC’s recent batch of rulings contribute to a body of regulation that controls what the public may and may not see on television and further that what is indecent is unclear in the FCC’s own policy. While this may have been permissible years ago, they claim, Americans now can control tv content through technology. The FCC says both Supreme Court precedent and its own authority are clear. Also chiming in are lobbying groups such as the Parents Television Council.