Letter from Congressman Adrian Smith

Knowing of our shared interest in constitutional rights, I am writing to update you on recent developments. As you may know, until 1985 the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) required broadcasters to present opposing viewpoints on controversial issues of public importance, even if such efforts failed to capture either listeners or advertising revenue - an obligation known as the Fairness Doctrine. The FCC, however, repealed this regulation due to its restrictive nature on broadcasters' journalistic freedom. Recently, a number of individulas and organizations have proposed reintroducing the Fairness Doctrine. I have serious concerns with the potential consequences of reinstating the Fairness Doctrine, both constitutionally and economically. Because this policy could have a devastating effect on the ability of privately-owned broadcasters, including religious broadcasters, to air programming their listeners want to hear, I have cosponsored the Broadcast Freedom Act (H.R. 226). This legislation would prohibit the FCC from bringing back this ill-concieved policy, which would be particularly devastating to rural broadcasters. Rest assured, I will continue to work to uphold the Constitution and the rights it guarantees. I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts on this matter and welcome your input; as always, please feel free to contact me regarding this or any issue of your concern.