Broadcasters Want Sponsored Song Notices Stripped From Airwaves
Radio broadcasters are seeking changes to the way listeners are notified that they are hearing sponsored songs. A group of nine broadcasters, including Beasley, Cox, Cromwell Group, Emmis, Entercom, First Natchez, Greater Media, Henson Media and iHeartMedia, have filed a petition with the FCC requesting that radio companies be allowed to move disclosures about sponsored songs online. Currently these disclosures are required to be stated on air.
The group—which notably doesn’t include Cumulus—claims this change will offer “far greater and more accessible sponsorship information to listeners.” It goes on to say that this is a “consumer-friendly” move with “fewer interruptions” to on-air programming.
Laws require stations to identify sponsored programming in an effort to combat payola, which would theoretically even the playing field among those competing for airtime.
The petition was revealed Friday, March 13 when the F.C.C. announced that it would accept public feedback through April 13.
Read more from the New York Times.
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