FTC Backs Networks: The Federal Trade Commission’s...

FTC Backs Networks: The Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Economics recommended that the Federal Communications Commission repeal the so-called financial interest and syndication rules that prohibit the three major TV networks from participating in the $3-billion program rerun business. Both the networks and the Hollywood studios and producers are engaged in last-minute lobbying campaigns before the FCC makes its decision early next year. The FTC’s BOE joins other government agencies, such as the Justice Department and the Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which previously stated that they favor lifting or relaxing the restrictions.