Democrats in the House and Senate have introduced legislation prohibiting the FCC from revoking a license based on the viewpoints expressed on broadcast stations. The legislation was introduced in the Senate by Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Jackie Rosed (D-NV), and Ed Markey (D-MA). A similar bill was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Doris Matsui (D-Calif.), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.), and Jennifer McClellan (D-VA).
As drafted, the Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act would:
Explicitly state that the FCC is an independent agency and it must not use its authority to execute politically motivated attacks against licensees.
Prohibit the FCC from taking action (including revoking any license or authorization) against any person based on the viewpoints disseminated.
Prohibit the FCC from placing conditions based on viewpoints disseminated on any transaction approval.
The legislation has no effect on the FCC’s authority to take action on violations explicitly outlined in other sections of the Communications Act, including with regard to obscenity, lottery, fraud, or incitement under the First Amendment.
Earlier this year, complaints against ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox were dismissed by then-FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel. Current FCC Chair Brendan Carr reinstated the complaints against ABC, CBS, and NBC.
Also, as part of an executive order, President Trump has sought to obtain more control over independent agencies, including the FCC. The legislation was introduced in response to these actions.
You can see a summary of the legislation here.
You can see the text of the legislation here.