WASHINGTON, D.C. (NRB) – NRB announced a two-part response to recent developments involving ABC Television and its affiliated broadcast stations, underscoring the importance of both responsible media stewardship and a stable, predictable regulatory environment in an evolving communications marketplace.
(1) NRB has formally requested that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) review comments aired during the April 23, 2026 broadcast of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”. (2) NRB is opposing the FCC’s reported decision to accelerate license renewal proceedings for ABC-owned television stations.
Request for FCC Review of Broadcast Content
NRB has asked the FCC to examine whether remarks made during the April 23 broadcast, when viewed in their full context, raise concerns regarding the normalization or potential incitement of political violence.
“While satire and commentary are protected forms of expression, there remains a clear line between protected speech and content that may undermine public safety or civic stability,” said NRB President & CEO Troy A. Miller. “Our request is not about silencing viewpoints. It is about ensuring accountability within the framework that governs over-the-air broadcasting.”
NRB emphasized that its request for review is consistent with its longstanding commitment to both the First Amendment and the responsibilities that accompany use of the public airwaves.
Opposition to Accelerated License Renewal Action
At the same time, NRB expressed concern regarding the FCC’s decision to call ABC-owned television stations into early license renewal proceedings, a move that departs from the agency’s established and uniform renewal process.
“The FCC’s license renewal process works best when it is applied the same way to everyone,” Miller stated. “When that process is changed or sped up for one company, it creates real uncertainty—not just for that broadcaster, but for stations across the country, including many faith-based broadcasters who depend on a stable, predictable system to serve their communities.”
NRB cautioned that accelerating license renewal actions for a single network risks setting a precedent that could have far-reaching implications across the broadcast industry.
“Selective or uneven application of regulatory processes undermines confidence in the system as a whole,” Miller added. “Broadcasters of all sizes need clarity, consistency, and fairness from their regulators.”
NRB reiterated its commitment to defending free expression, promoting responsible broadcasting, and ensuring that regulatory frameworks are applied fairly and consistently across the communications landscape.
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