Rehr’s exit leaves broadcasters more vulnerable?
It seems like the broadcasting industry is going rounds in the boxing ring and getting hit from all sides. A struggling economy and automotive industry has left them bleeding from the head with the layoffs still mounting. The FCC is attempting to take them out at the knees with rulemaking and mandates that make it more difficult to stay in business – and the future of that relationship is even more uncertain as a new Chairman has not yet been confirmed. If the economy doesn’t permanently disable television stations, the FCC’s requirements and Congress’s delay of the DTV Transition is sure to finish the job. And if Congress passes legislation to charge radio stations performance royalties, it could be the knock-out punch that seals their fate. NAB President David Rehr’s sudden resignation may send the wrong message to all contenders – broadcasters are weak and not winning the fight. This is the time for broadcasters to do what they do best – provide essential public service and valuable entertainment to their communities and help recharge the economy by supporting local businesses. It may seem like they’re the underdog here but broadcasters, not the government, the record companies or NAB, are the deeply rooted in their cities and towns and know how to persevere. When the dust settles, broadcasters will be the heroes. In this round I’m putting my money on David, not Goliath.
Here’s an interesting commentary from Eric Rhoades at Radio Ink about David Rehr’s resignation and the future of NAB.
Tags: NAB President resigns, New Hampshire Association of Broadcasters
