Stop FCC's New Push for "Fairness Doctrine"

By 

Jay Sekulow

|
June 9, 2011

3 min read

Free Speech

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It may have a new name, but don't be mistaken - we're talking about a possible return of the troubling Fairness Doctrine.  What's disturbing is this: There continues to be a drumbeat from liberals who would like to shut down conservative talk radio - silence shows that talk about controversial issues from a Christian perspective.  Programs like Jay Sekulow Live!
 
Now, a top FCC commissioner it touting something called a "Public Value Test" for broadcast stations.  Essentially, if the FCC doesn't like what it hears, it pulls the plug on the station's license.  No, he won't use the term "Fairness Doctrine" - but clearly this new standard represents a serious threat to free speech and to shows like our daily radio broadcast and weekly television program.
 
In a speech at the Columbia University School of Journalism, FCC Commissioner Michael Copps put it clearly when he said: "If a station passes the Public Value Test, it of course keeps the license it has earned to use the peoples airwaves," Copps said. "If not, it goes on probation for a year, renewable for an additional year if it demonstrates measurable progress. If the station fails again, give the license to someone who will use it to serve the public interest."  You can read more about this latest move here.
 
We're not going to be fooled by a name change.  The "Public Value Test" is nothing more than another attempt to implement the Fairness Doctrine.   Actually this so-called "test" is more insidious than the Fairness Doctrine.  This new policy would intimidate station owners - make them nervous about airing controversial programs and ultimately result in keeping conservative talk programs - including shows like Jay Sekulow Live! - off the air.
 
The FCC can act on its own to implement this troubling change.  It does not require Congressional approval.  That's why we're mobilizing to stop this at the agency level itself.
 
I have instructed our research teams to engage this issue and begin to work on this very real threat to our First Amendment rights.  It's time to put a stop to President Obama's FCC from imposing anything that amounts to a Fairness Doctrine.
 
Here's how you can make a difference.  Add your name to our Petition to Stop President Obama from Imposing the Fairness Doctrine.
 
This is nothing more than the FCC's latest attempt to intimidate broadcasters - muzzle Christian radio and television - to silence conservative talk. 
 
This is not the way freedom works.