Martin Reinforces Opposition To Fairness Doctrine

MARTIN REINFORCES OPPOSITION TO FAIRNESS DOCTRINE
[SOURCE: Broadcasting&Cable, AUTHOR: John Eggerton]
FCC Chairman Kevin Martin has reasserted his opposition to reinstating the fairness doctrine, which once required broadcasters to cover both sides of issues of public importance. In a letter to Rep. Mike Pence (R-IL), Chairman Martin says: "In my judgment, the events of the last two decades have confirmed the wisdom of the Commission’s decision to abolish the Fairness Doctrine. Discussion of controversial issues over the airwaves has flourished absent regulatory constraints, and the public now enjoys access to an ever-expanding range of views and opinions. Indeed, with the continued proliferation of additional sources of information and programming, including satellite broadcasting and the Internet, the need for the Fairness Doctrine has lessened ever further since 1987. In short, I see no compelling reason to reinstate the Fairness Doctrine in today’s broadcast environment, and believe that such a step would inhibit the robust discussion of issues of public concern over the nation’s airwaves."
http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6463549.html?rssid=193

* See Pence press release:
http://mikepence.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=70110

* Martin Sees ‘No Compelling Reason’ to Revive Fairness Doctrine
http://www.tvweek.com/news/2007/07/martin_sees_no_compelling_reas.php
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* FCC chair: Fairness Doctrine not needed (Associated Press)
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070726/ap_on_go_ot/fairness_doctrine_1