FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 23, 2003

LARSON APPLAUDS HOUSE VOTE TO BLOCK A PORTION OF FCC DECISION

WASHINGTON, D.C.- U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) today applauded a vote in the House of Representatives that would block a recent decision by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that would allow media companies to own televisions stations that reach up to 45 percent of the nation's viewers. The language was contained in the Commerce, Justice, State appropriations bill and prevents the FCC's decision from being implemented, instead retaining the 35 percent cap that has existed for decades. It passed by a vote of 400-21.

Larson stated: "This is a victory for local control, market diversity and consumer interests throughout the nation. I am very pleased that the House voted overwhelmingly to prevent this misguided decision from taking effect and it is my hope that this provision will be included in the final measure that is passed by Congress. While the FCC decision gave greater control to a few large corporations, this action today is a strong step in the direction of ensuring continued competition on the public airwaves, especially in smaller media markets."

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