Preamble: To ensure a well-informed citizenry and uphold democratic principles, Congress enacts the Fair Media Practices Act of 2028. This Act reestablishes the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations requiring news media to present balanced perspectives on significant public issues, promoting accountability, diversity, and equity in media representation. By doing so, this Act safeguards minority voices and strengthens public trust in journalism.
Title I: Restoration of the Fairness Doctrine
Section 101. Fairness in News Reporting
1. All broadcast license holders shall provide:
o Balanced coverage of controversial issues of public importance.
o Reasonable opportunities for contrasting viewpoints to be aired.
Section 102. Scope of Application
1. This regulation applies to:
o Radio and television broadcasters licensed by the FCC.
o Cable and satellite news networks operating within U.S. jurisdictions.
2. Exemptions:
o Entertainment programs, opinion segments explicitly labeled as such, and non-news programming.
Section 103. Minority Voice Protections
1. Broadcasters must:
o Allocate airtime for underrepresented perspectives, including voices from minority and underserved communities.
o Partner with community organizations to identify diverse contributors.
Title II: Accountability and Oversight
Section 201. FCC Oversight Authority
1. The FCC shall:
o Monitor compliance with fairness requirements.
o Establish a public complaints mechanism for viewers to report perceived imbalances or lack of representation.
2. Broadcasters must retain records of aired programming, including:
o Evidence of efforts to present contrasting viewpoints.
o Documentation of outreach to diverse contributors.
Section 202. Penalties for Non-Compliance
1. Broadcasters found in violation of this Act shall face:
o Fines ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 per infraction, based on the severity of the breach.
o Potential suspension or revocation of broadcast licenses for repeated violations.
Section 203. Annual Reporting
1. The FCC shall submit an annual report to Congress detailing:
o Compliance rates among broadcasters.
o Actions taken against violators.
o Recommendations for policy adjustments.
Title III: Public Education and Engagement
Section 301. Media Literacy Campaign
1. The FCC, in partnership with the Department of Education, shall:
o Launch a nationwide media literacy campaign to help citizens critically evaluate news sources.
o Provide resources for schools to incorporate media literacy into their curricula.
Section 302. Public Awareness Initiative
1. Broadcasters must air periodic public service announcements explaining:
o Viewers’ rights under this Act.
o How to submit complaints to the FCC.
Title IV: Funding and Implementation
Section 401. Appropriations
1. Congress authorizes $250 million annually to:
o Support FCC enforcement efforts.
o Fund the public education and media literacy campaigns.
2. Funding shall be sourced from:
o Reallocation of existing federal communication and media education funds.
Section 402. Implementation Timeline
1. This Act shall take effect on January 1, 2029.
2. The FCC shall finalize enforcement guidelines and begin compliance monitoring within six months of enactment.
Title V: Sunset Clause and Review
Section 501. Sunset Clause
1. This Act shall expire on December 31, 2100, unless reauthorized by Congress following a comprehensive evaluation.
Section 502. Legislative Review
1. Congress shall review the effectiveness of this Act in:
o Ensuring balanced news reporting.
o Amplifying minority voices in public discourse.
o Enhancing public trust in media institutions.
Conclusion: The Fair Media Practices Act of 2028 restores critical media accountability standards to ensure diverse, balanced reporting on public issues. By empowering minority voices and enhancing transparency, this Act reinforces democratic values and the public’s right to informed decision-making.