The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has voted to repeal the national television ownership limit, a rule that previously restricted any single entity from owning more than 39% of the nation's broadcast television households. The 2-1 vote by the Republican-led commission effectively removes a decades-old barrier to consolidation within the broadcast industry. Commissioners Michael O'Rielly and Ajit Pai voted in favor of the repeal, while Commissioner Mignon Clyburn dissented.

Instead of a hard cap, the FCC will now evaluate proposed station acquisitions on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as market impact and public interest. This shift marks a significant departure from the previous regulatory framework, which was established in 1985. Proponents of the repeal argue it will foster greater competition and allow broadcasters to better compete with other media platforms. Critics, however, express concerns that it could lead to a less diverse media landscape and concentrate media power in fewer hands.

The decision comes after a period of intense lobbying from broadcast industry groups, including the National Association of Broadcasters, which have long advocated for the removal of the ownership limit. The FCC's move is expected to pave the way for a new wave of mergers and acquisitions within the television broadcasting sector, potentially reshaping the ownership of local news stations across the country.