What does Preamble of S 867 do?

This bill proposes to amend the Communications Act of 1934. The proposed amendment aims to clarify that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) cannot take action against broadcast licensees or other individuals based on viewpoint. The bill's stated purpose is 'to clarify that the Federal Communications Commission may not take action against a broadcast licensee or any other person on the basis of viewpoint.'

What does SHORT TITLE. of S 867 do?

This bill is formally titled the Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act of 2025.

What does FINDINGS. of S 867 do?

This section outlines findings related to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It notes the FCC was established by the Communications Act of 1934 to regulate communication and provide service without discrimination. The text emphasizes the importance of the FCC's independence from political pressure and presidential influence. It states that FCC Commissioners have specified terms and cannot be removed at will by the President. The section references section 326 of the Communications Act of 1934, which limits the FCC's power to censorship and protects free speech. It asserts that investigations and threats should not be used to suppress viewpoints or intimidate broadcast licensees.

What does VIEWPOINT PROTECTION. of S 867 do?

This section amends the Communications Act of 1934 to add viewpoint protection provisions. The Commission is prohibited from revoking a license or taking action against a person based on their broadcast viewpoints. The Commission cannot impose conditions on approval related to viewpoints broadcast by the applicant, their successors, or affiliated persons. This section clarifies that the Commission's authority to take action based on violations of specific U.S. Code sections (1304, 1343, and 1464) or incitement under the First Amendment is not affected by the viewpoint protection provisions.

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Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act of 2025 — S. 867

Last updated: 3/5/2025 · Introduced: 3/5/2025

Author: Ben Luján (D-NM)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prevent the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from taking action against broadcast licensees or individuals based on their viewpoints.
The FCC is prohibited from revoking licenses or imposing conditions related to broadcast viewpoints, except in cases of specific legal violations like those outlined in U.S. Code sections 1304, 1343, and 1464, or incitement.
The bill reaffirms the importance of FCC independence from political pressure and presidential influence, referencing existing protections against censorship and free speech.

119th Congressin committeeHR. 1880(In Committee)Official page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

4 sections

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