Local radio’s ownership fight isn’t about getting bigger for its own sake, according to NAB Radio Board Chair and Beasley Media Group General Counsel Chris Ornelas, it’s about survival. As television gets cap relief from the FCC, Ornelas argued radio faces even steeper competitive pressure.
Speaking on NAB’s Airtime podcast, Ornelas said, “Ownership modernization really isn’t about size for size’s sake. It’s about sustainability. It’s really about survival. Broadcasters today, we’re competing every day with streaming platforms, digital advertising companies, and social media giants that can reach audiences nationwide without the regulatory constraints imposed on local broadcasters.”
“In 1996, broadcasters were largely competing against each other and other broadcasters,” he commented. “Today, local radio stations compete against streaming audio services, podcasts, satellite radio.”
Modernized rules, Ornelas believes, would free up resources for local investment: “Things like expanded news, community affairs programming, new digital platforms, streaming products and podcast initiatives. It could help with enhanced local sports and community event coverage. It could help us modernize our studio technologies and infrastructure.”
With the FCC having voted this month to replace the national TV ownership cap with case-by-case review, Ornelas said radio’s own fight continues. “The goal is to ensure that local radio broadcasters can continue to invest, innovate, compete, and continue serving our communities for generations to come.”
