BRIEFS

POWELL RUNNING ON LOCAL TRACK

When Michael Powell, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, announced a new initiative to improve localism in TV and radio, most of the responses suggested that he was doing too little, too late to assuage his critics in Congress. However, according to a telecom lawyer who asked for anonymity, the Powell initiative could become “a double-edged sword that cuts into both broadcast and public interest groups' positions, and leaves Powell unscathed.” Part of his review will consider whether TV and radio licenses are too often renewed with minimal investigation into their public service actions, coverage spent on local news and local issues. “The FCC may find that some station groups such as Sinclair are skimping out of their local obligations,” said one broadcast group lobbyist. The review may not stop with over-the-air broadcasting. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, said on June 4 that he is concerned with public interest obligations of cable conglomerates. One issue gaining public attention and traction with some members of Congress is large cable systems that cut ... // 50% Remaining