Common sense prevails in the House of Representatives

Despite a veto threat from President Bush, the House voted 400-21 to block new media ownership rules being implemented by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

The new FCC rules increase the number of TV stations companies may own. A primary objection from opponents is the fear that fewer companies are owning more of the media. While the internet has certainly contributed to the number of voices available to consumers, empires like Time Warner, Clear Channel and others are the dominating force in broadcasting.

Given that trend of consolidation, I don't see a need to loosen the restrictions any further. If limits are so bad, why not eliminate them entirely? Advocates of the FCC rules still must admit that they believe in SOME restrictions on the amount of media companies may own. Therefore, the House properly decided that current trends in media ownership do not justify loosening the rules at this time.