The Fight to Stop the Fairness Doctrine

The so-called Fairness Doctrine continues to be front and center in Washington, and the situation is constantly changing.  With that in mind, I want to update you on the very latest.  As you know, the ACLJ is assisting Congressman Mike Pence and Congressman Greg Walden as they work to obtain 218 signatures on the Discharge Petition for the Broadcaster Freedom Act (BFA).  The BFA would prevent any future Administration from implementing the Fairness Doctrine. This is a bold move by Pence and Walden. While there has been a push by some to re-implement the Fairness Doctrine, the discharge petition makes those members of Congress take a stand. Either they are intent on re-implementing the Fairness Doctrine or they are not.
 
Right now, each of the 201 Republican Members of the House is expected to sign the petition by the end of today.  The real challenge is finding 17 Democrat Members to follow suit.  On the merits, this should be an easy task, as 113 Democrats voted against the Fairness Doctrine in June.  There is no policy reason for them to change course now.  It will of course be a bit more challenging in practice, because House Leadership favors the Fairness Doctrine and will be working hard to keep their Members from signing the petition.  It will take courage for 17 Democrat Members to take a stand for what they believe (and in line with how they voted) in the face of opposition from their Leadership.
 
That is why it is so critical for you to stand with the ACLJ at this time.  We are working hard to make sure your voice is heard in Washington on this issue.  It is vital that you stand with us in two ways.  First, sign our online petition opposing the Fairness Doctrine.  This will enable us to represent your views in front of your Member of Congress.  The names on this petition will be hand delivered to House Members by our Government Affairs team. Second, call your Congressional representative and ask them to sign the Discharge Petition for the Broadcaster Freedom Act. 

In todays Spotlight section we are linking to a list of Members who need to sign the petition.

This is such an important issue.  We will keep you posted as progress unfolds.