No Fairness Doctrine
The Fairness Doctrine was originally introduced by The FCC in 1949 to require broadcasters to present controversial issues of public importance in an honest, equitable, and balanced manner.  The United States Supreme Court upheld the Commission's right to enforce where media channels were limited.  In 1987 the FCC abolished the fairness doctrine claiming that it hurt the public interest and violated free speech rights guaranteed by the First Amendment.  Congress then attempted to codify the Fairness Doctrine in 1987; however, Ronald Reagan vetoed the legislation.  There was another attempt to revive the doctrine in 1991, but George H. W. Bush threatened to veto.  In 2005 Democrat’s again introduced legislation to restore the Fairness doctrine. In 2009 Democratic legislators are again saying that it is time to reinstate the fairness doctrine. Reinstating the fairness doctrine would result in an end to conservative radio talk show broadcasts. We need to make sure that Congress does not pass a bill that reinstates a fairness doctrine that restricts free speech. 

Join the CAU Network 

Become a Member

Become a Local Leader

Donate