|
FCC to Commence
EEO Audits
Published by DWT's Communications, Media and Information Technology Group
[May 2004]
The FCC is poised to commence random audits of broadcast stations,
cable systems, and other multichannel video program distributors
(MVPDs) to gauge compliance with the equal employment opportunity
(EEO) rules that became effective in March 2003. In a letter to
the United Church of Christ earlier this month, Chairman Michael
K. Powell reiterated the FCC’s commitment to conduct the EEO
audits. The Chairman also defended the Commission’s decision
to wait until the new rules had been in place for a year before
conducting the audits to allow broadcasters sufficient time to implement
new policies and document compliance.
The audits, which are to begin before the end of the month, will
be conducted randomly of approximately 550 radio stations, 70 broadcast
television stations and 70 MVPDs, including 5 percent of cable operators.
In addition, a sampling of smaller stations and MVPDs that have
claimed exemption from the EEO requirements will also be audited
to ensure their qualification with the exemption and verify any
discrimination information.
Please let us know if you would like assistance in reviewing your
policies governing compliance with the Commission’s EEO rules,
including preparation of your public file reports. With the radio
renewal season in full swing and the Chairman’s commitment
to ensuring EEO compliance by both broadcasters and MVPDs, now may
be a good time to review your company’s EEO initiatives.
Contact:
James S.
Blitz, Washington, D.C., (202) 508-6605, jimblitz@dwt.com
This Communications Law Advisory is a publication of the Communications,
Media and Information Technologies Group of Davis Wright Tremaine
LLP. Our purpose in publishing this Advisory is to inform our clients
and friends of recent developments in communications law. It is
not intended, nor should it be used, as a substitute for specific
legal advice as legal counsel may be given only in response to inquiries
regarding particular situations. Copyright © 2004, Davis Wright
Tremaine LLP.
Return to Communications, Media and Information Technology home
|
