Hinchey Introduces Anti-Consolidation Bill

Rep. Maurice Hinchey, D-N.Y. has introduced a bill he says would end media consolidation if passed. Called the Media Ownership Reform Act of 2005, the measure
“tackles the issue of media consolidation head on and implements new standards for a diverse media that will ensure Americans have access to a wide array of ideas and information,” said Hinchey.
The measure restores the Fairness Doctrine, reinstates the national radio ownership cap and lowers the local radio ownership limits. It further reinstates the 25% national television ownership cap, requires regular public interest reports from broadcasters and provides for more independently produced programming on television, according to Hinchey.
“It is imperative that the Congress take action to fix this broken media system,” said Hinchey.
Rep. Diane Watson, D-Calif., is the principal cosponsor.