GOP Lawmakers criticize FCC rule requiring broadcasters to put files online

In a letter to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski, Reps. Cliff Stearns (R-FL), Brian Bilbray (R-CA) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) ask the chairman to explain the reasoning behind a proposed order that would require broadcasters to put their public inspection files, including information on political advertisements, online for anyone to view. They said the FCC “has not adequately assessed the costs or burdens associated with this proposal, nor articulated the need.” The lawmakers also question the need to place the information online in the first place, citing a statement by FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell that there is little evidence that public files aren't already available to anyone who wants to see them. “The commission must explain the need for this proposal before implementing such a costly endeavor,” they wrote.