“In large part, the FCC has finally done what both Congress and the courts have asked it to do, and our free speech society needs it to do. It has adopted new broadcast ownership rules that are enforceable, based on empirical evidence and reflective of today’s 21st century marketplace. The FCC, in affect, has taken a big step toward removing the regulatory muzzle from American broadcasters.

“The new suite of rules recognize and reflect the explosive growth in the number and variety of media outlets in the market, as well as the significant efficiencies and public interest benefits that can be obtained from common ownership. At the same time, the rules correctly reflect the continuing goals of ensuring diversity and localism and guarding against undue concentration in the marketplace.

 “I commend Chairman Powell and the Commission for crafting new rules that balance what many thought were mutually exclusive goals. However, I must note my disappointment with the fact that this long overdue move toward media deregulation did not extend to the area of the Commission’s decision regarding radio ownership. I fear that today’s re-regulation will stifle, and perhaps reverse the vitality of the radio industry, which was literally brought back to life after Congress enacted the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Should this happen, consumers will most certainly be the losers.”