FCC HEARING 101:
Learn the FCC Basics
The FCC's rulemaking process and how you can make a difference.
What Should I Say?
Tips for testifying before the commissioners.
Four Points to Remember
Some important points to take to the hearings.
The FCC held an official public hearing in
Portland, Maine on Thursday, June. 28, 2007.
The hearing included ample opportunity for public comment as well as two panel presentations from community leaders, academics and members of the local broadcasting industry. Read the agenda which includes details on the panelists.
>>Listen to Chellie Pingree's, former Maine State Senator, testimony
>>Listen to FCC Commissioner Michael Copps' closing remarks
>>Listen to FCC Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein's closing remarks
According to the FCC, "The purpose of the hearing is to gather information from consumers, industry, civic organizations, and others on broadcasters' service to their local communities. Along with competition and diversity, promoting localism is a key goal of the Commission's media ownership rules."
This hearing was one of the public's rare chances to speak out against Big Media before FCC Chairman Kevin Martin moves to lift the last significant limits to runaway media consolidation.
At other public hearings, in Tampa, Harrisburg, Nashville, and Los Angeles, thousands of concerned citizens overwhelming expressed their opposition to any rule changes that would let Big Media companies swallow up more local outlets.
The marriage of Comcast and NBC is bad news for consumers. But Washington and Wall Street have already bought into the idea that it's a done deal. That's why Americans need to speak out now and stop the mega-merger!
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