The National Association of Broadcasters said on Wednesday that the Federal Communications Commission's move to require Disney's ABC station to renew its license early has created "significant uncertainty" for all broadcasters. The FCC ordered Disney on Tuesday to submit license renewal applications in advance for eight local TV stations it owns. These licenses were originally scheduled to expire between 2028 and 2031, and are now required to complete the applications within 30 days. The FCC said the move was related to its investigation into Disney's diversity policies and potential violations.
The decision comes on the heels of the White House's latest feud with ABC late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel. Kimmel poked fun at first lady Melania Trump on the show, sparking strong criticism from President Trump.
The National Association of Broadcasters said in a statement: "The FCC Media Bureau's move to require a company to quickly reapply for all licenses is almost unprecedented, violates the principles of fairness and transparency in the licensing process, and creates significant uncertainty for all broadcasters."
There are also divisions within the FCC, with Anna Gomez, the agency's only Democratic commissioner, criticizing the move as "unprecedented, illegal and senseless" and a "political stunt." Disney expressed confidence in obtaining the renewal and was prepared to deal with it through legal channels.
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