Blog: Factual Information Starts with Local Radio and TV

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Alex Siciliano

In a recent blog post by NAB Senior Vice President of Communications Alex Siciliano, the enduring value of local radio and television stations was highlighted amidst growing concerns over misinformation online. The post responds to Meta's recent pivot away from third-party fact-checking, emphasizing the contrast between unregulated digital platforms and the reliable, fact-checked reporting by local media.

Local radio and TV stations, often considered the backbone of their communities, continue to play a crucial role in delivering not only news but also crucial emergency updates that keep communities safe and informed. This was particularly underscored during the recent massive snowstorm on the East Coast, where local broadcasters provided continuous updates on school closures, road conditions, and weather forecasts, ensuring that residents could navigate the storm safely.

The blog also addresses the challenges faced by these stations, including outdated ownership regulations that restrict their competitive edge in the modern media landscape. Unlike Big Tech platforms, which operate with few constraints, local stations are often hampered by regulatory frameworks that fail to reflect current market realities. Siciliano calls for policymakers to modernize these rules to help local media continue their mission of fostering democracy, civic engagement and community resilience.

In an era dominated by the rapid spread of unverified information online, local stations stand out as beacons of accountability and accuracy, committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. Their ongoing dedication ensures that communities have access to trustworthy information when it matters most.