This week, NAB released the Broadcasters’ Policy Agenda detailing the most important policy issues facing local television and radio stations during the 118th Congress.

From the threat posed to local journalism by Big Tech behemoths to ensuring media ownership rules allow local stations to fairly compete in marketplace, there are vital issues before Congress and the Federal Communications Commission that could impact broadcasters’ service to their viewers and listeners. 

Local TV and radio stations play a unique role across America by serving communities with the most trusted news, up-to-the-minute weather and traffic, some of the most popular sports and entertainment and important emergency updates. Local stations provide it all free to charge to anyone with a radio or a television and antenna.

Local broadcasters take this public service role seriously, even risking their own health and safety at times to provide a lifeline during times of crisis. Beyond breaking news, local TV and radio stations provide significant support to charities and victims of disasters, create awareness about important health and safety issues and help rescue abducted children with AMBER Alerts.

Policymakers can support this vital service by allowing broadcasters to compete in the media marketplace and rejecting proposals that could harm local stations’ unparalleled localism.

As we celebrate NAB’s centennial and 100 years of incredible service by America’s local TV and radio broadcasters, we are grateful for the stations carrying on broadcasting’s legacy of providing the most trusted news, emergency information and entertainment to our communities. We can’t wait to see what the next 100 years will bring.