Free Press Filing in the Matter of Sponsorship-Identification Rules and Embedded Advertising
Free Press has filed a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission asking the agency to investigate the growing use of undisclosed commercials in TV newscasts. Free Press has long been concerned about the use of corporate and government propaganda in the media. The group filed a series of complaints in 2006 and 2007, along with the Center for Media and Democracy, about the undisclosed use of video news releases at more than 100 broadcast and cable stations. The FCC launched an investigation in 2007 and ultimately fined one company, Comcast, for airing video news releases on its CN8 channel without identifying sponsors. Since then, no further action has been taken by the FCC against fake news or embedded advertising.
Free Press is a national, nonpartisan organization working to reform the media. Free Press does not support or oppose any candidate for public office. Through education, organizing and advocacy, we promote diverse and independent media ownership, strong public media and universal access to communications.
