FCC Will Reassess V-Chip, Ratings System

The Federal Communications Commission is about to open a second front in its reassessment of the V-chip and of family-friendly programming -- including whether it is possible to have a single-content ratings system that can apply to movies, videogames, TV and cellphones. The study may also look at ways to ensure that once a TV or movie is rated, data is readily available whether the program subsequently is viewed on TV, cable, a phone or a computer. An initial report, due later this week or early next week, concludes repeatedly that considerably more information is needed before any changes can be recommended, say individuals close to the FCC. And, according to the report, the FCC intends to shortly initiate a far broader and more detailed examination into how the current system works in a multi-platform world. The FCC is due to release the initial report by the end of the month.