FCC to Modernize Contest Rule for Online Access

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, November 21, 2014

The FCC issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that would update its broadcast contest rule to reflect how consumers obtain information in the 21st Century. Today, the contest rule requires broadcasters to disclose important contest information fully and accurately, and to conduct contests substantially as announced. The proposed change would allow broadcast stations to meet their disclosure obligation by providing contest information over the air, as they do today, or by posting that information on a website.

The Notice also proposes to adopt rules defining the disclosure requirements for broadcasters who choose to satisfy their obligation through a website. Among other things, they would be required to announce the website address where their contest information can be found each time they mention a contest over the air.

The FCC says it's initiating this proceeding to respond to the "dramatic changes that have occurred in the way Americans obtain information since the contest rule was adopted almost four decades ago." The proposed changes would give broadcast stations more flexibility to comply. The changes would also give consumers a more convenient way to access and understand important contest rules normally aired through television and radio advertisements.