The FCC announced plans for an August 6 vote to repeal Section 303 of the Communications Act and the 39 percent rule, which limits a local TV network's reach to 39 percent of the US audience market. The commission would replace it with case-by-case approval of TV ownership deals.

Critics question the FCC's authority, noting Section 10 expressly forbids bending rules around Section 303. As Lawrence J. Spiwak wrote in the Yale Journal on Regulation, the move may lack legislative consent. FCC Chair Carr has already threatened to revoke broadcast licenses for content critical of the government.

The rule change benefits media consolidation, particularly Sinclair Broadcast Group's resumed talks to acquire The EW Scripps Company. A similar Sinclair-Tribune deal would have given the Republican-affiliated Sinclair control over 70 percent of US homes before its 2018 rejection.