Broadcasters Gather in DC for State Leadership Conference

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, March 4, 2025 | 8:58pm CT

National Association of Broadcasters

More than 550 radio and television broadcasters from all 50 states gathered today at the Salamander Hotel for the National Association of Broadcasters' (NAB) annual State Leadership Conference (SLC). The event, hosted by WSB-TV Channel 2 anchor Jorge Estevez, focused on the role of local broadcasters and the impact of federal policy on stations and the communities they serve.

Over the course of the two-day event, broadcasters will meet with lawmakers on Capitol Hill to discuss policy priorities for the 119th Congress.

NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt opened the conference by emphasizing broadcasters' role in their communities and their influence in Washington. "Broadcasters' essential role in their communities and the impact of their advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill" were key themes of his remarks. He also outlined major policy priorities, including the need to modernize broadcast ownership rules and ensuring AM radio remains accessible in automobiles.

LeGeyt later led a discussion with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author Brody Mullins on how advocacy strategies have changed over time and the significance of grassroots lobbying.

Several legislators and policymakers addressed attendees, highlighting the role of local broadcasters and discussing potential regulatory changes. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, underscored the importance of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, which he leads. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the ranking member of the same committee, advocated for modernizing broadcast ownership rules to support broadcasters' investment in local journalism.

Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-KY), chair of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, emphasized broadcasters' role in emergencies and the need for fair competition. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), ranking member of the House Committee on the Judiciary, spoke on the importance of a strong and independent local broadcast media for democracy.

A discussion between NAB's Chief Legal Officer Rick Kaplan and FCC Commissioner Nathan Simington covered topics such as the transition to the ATSC 3.0 broadcasting standard and the need to reform outdated media ownership rules.

Additional highlights of the event included a government relations briefing on key issues for broadcasters, the presentation of the Crystal Radio Awards recognizing public service efforts, and the Crystal Heritage and Chuck Sherman Television Leadership Awards. Wendy Paulson, outgoing president of the National Alliance of State Broadcasters Associations (NASBA), was also honored.