Headlines
Enhancing Public Safety: The Evolution and Impact of Datacasting
Did you know that broadcast datacasting, which started with closed captioning, now plays a vital role in public safety and emergency communications? SpectraRep, an affiliate of BIA, has pioneered datacasting and is developing a nationwide wireless...
Universal Ads Sets Up Shop In Local TV’s Backyard
The unveiling last week of Comcast's Universal Ads platform marks a significant shift in the TV/video advertising landscape, and a potential threat for local TV stations and their ad sales teams.
Mergers & Acquisitions
Deal Digest: EMF Buys In Vermont And Closes California Deal
Victor Webster’s Vic Web Radio has filed a $450,000 deal to buy CHR “Kiss 96.1” WWKS and R&B “105 Jamz” WVJZ in Charlotte Amalie, VI from Gordon Ackley’s Gark.
Television
L.A. Wildfires Raise Need For Advertiser Support of Local News
The 118th Congress ended with the proposed Journalism Competition and Preservation Act left to wither in Congress, despite the bipartisan support of 20 Senators, with Minnesota Democrat Amy Klobuchar leading the charge.
Digital
Survey: Local Media Industry Bullish on Digital in 2025
83% of executives from broadcast, newspapers and other local outlets surveyed by LMC believe digital ad revenue will increase or hold steady this year
Trump looks to save TikTok from potential ban, Walz says
President-elect Trump will move to "preserve" TikTok, said his pick for national security adviser, Rep. Michael Waltz (R-Fla.), on Wednesday — as a potential nationwide ban looms.
FCC
FCC’s Rosenworcel Takes Parting Swipe at Trump Administration Over First Amendment
Chair denies four complaints against TV stations for ‘biased coverage’
A $369,190 Proposed Fine for Improper Participation in EAS Tests Shows that Ignorance of FCC Rules Is No Excuse for Noncompliance
A decision from the past week shows that the FCC shows no mercy for broadcasters who don’t know the rules, even when the broadcaster attempts to comply.
FCC Media Bureau Sets Aug. 1, 2026, Closed Captioning Compliance Deadline
Equipment manufacturers, MVPDs must make caption-display settings readily accessible to hard-of-hearing individuals before that date
