FCC Seeks Public Comment On Proposal To Take Control Of Program Ratings

BusinessMediaFCC Seeks Public Comment On Proposal To Take Control Of Program RatingsByRick Ellis,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. The global media business, from streaming to linear TVFollow AuthorApr 26, 2026, 07:07pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 18: The seal for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seen in the Commission's briefing room during a meeting at FCC headquarters (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)Getty ImagesIn a new filing, the FCC is looking for comments from the public and other interested parties on a plan to take control of the voluntary TV ratings system to banish transgender and non-binary subject matter and hijack the TV Parental Guidelines Monitoring Board in a move the commission says will “protect children.”The current TV ratings system is a voluntary industry effort run by the TV Oversight Management Board (TVOMB), comprised of the chairman (a position held by the head of the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), National Cable Television Association (now called NCTA – The Internet and Television Association) (NCTA), or the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) as well as up to 18 industry representatives from the broadcast, cable and creative communities, and five nonprofit members. This board supervises the familiar ratings system of The FCC filing complains the current rating system doesn’t account for programming that includes topics or characters it claims is not friendly to families:We seek comment on whether and how the Bureau’s suggestions, both regarding increased transparency of the TVOMB and accuracy of TV ratings, have been implemented. How does the TVOMB engage with the public and are the steps taken sufficient? Is the composition of the board sufficiently balanced to represent a broad range of stakeholders outside of the entertainmen...