FCC Initiative Examines New Media

The FCC launched an initiative on the future of media and the information needs of communities in the digital age.


Initial topics under consideration include: the state of TV, radio, newspaper, and Internet news and information services; the effectiveness and nature of public interest obligations in a digital era; the role of public media and private sector foundations; and many others. The initiative will not include any
effort to control the editorial content of any type of media.


"We are at a critical juncture in the evolution of American media," said FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski. "Rapid technological change in the media marketplace has created opportunities for tremendous innovation. It has also caused financial turmoil for traditional media, calling into question whether these media outlets will continue to play their historic role in providing local communities with essential news and civic information. With this crucial initiative, the FCC commits to fully understanding the fundamental changes underway in the media marketplace and examining what impact such changes may have for Commission policies, while vigorously protecting the First Amendment."http://www.FCC.gov/FutureofMediahttp://