New Rules for FTA

Filed under: FTA Headlines

Per a ruling by Dak and the admins earlier this Monday, no longer may
new stations consist of a duopoly of the Big 4 (FOX, CBS, ABC or NBC)
in the top 50 DMAs. Companies may however continue to own a Big 4 and
a smaller affiliate (CW or MyTV).

However, any station in a DMA below the Top 50 is allowed to still own
a Big 3 station and a FOX station. Although, any company owning
currently owning a Big 4 duopoly in the Top 50 markets are allowed to
keep their duopolies through a grandfather clause.

The other rule change is now companies are no longer required to ask
permission to switch affiliations.

When asked What were the catalysts for the rule changes, Dak
responded, “With FOX now being one of America’s top rated stations, we
felt it was time to let it be considered part of the “Big 4″ stations.
Rarely do you see FOX’s paired with ABC, CBS or NBC except in smaller
markets.”

He further added, “In regards to the affiliation changes, we felt that
the original rule served its purpose but was becoming more of a road
block to stations at this time. Many owners had talked to FTA about
not being able to switch affiliates and always getting the say “you
are a great asset to our network” line. So, these owners would then
just stop caring about the station or sell it. We hope with this
change they will keep their station and make it fit their needs and
continue to help it grow. ”

As for reaction on the rules changes, he responded, “As with any
change, I would hope reaction is positive, but we will see. So far I
have received no nasty PM’s about it, so thats a good start.”

Finally, asked if the changes would yield new growth for the game, Dak
answered, “FTA hopes these changes will cause owners to put more time
into their stations that maybe they use to think were stuck with a
certain affiliate. Also, we hope this allows many more owners the
opportunity to enter FTA’s top DMA’s and actually have competitive
networks at their disposal.”

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