FCC Approves Mega TV Merger, Sparks Legal Battles

On March 25, the Federal Communications Commission recently approved a $6.2 billion merger between

NexStar Media Group and Tegna, creating the largest television broadcaster in the country

with stations in 44 states.

Senator Ted Cruz of Texas slammed the decision, saying the agency skipped a full commission

vote by handing it off to its media bureau.

This approval also waived the FCC's longstanding 39% national audience reach cap on station

ownership, a rule said by Congress back in 2004.

Critics worry this sets a risky precedent for dodging big policy changes without broader

review.

Cruz, as chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, has real pull over the FCC and its pushback

highlights tensions even among those who back the.

Agency's deregulatory push, opponents from cable companies like DirectTV and State Attorney's

General argue the deal will hike consumer bills through tougher fee negotiations.

Law suits are piling up fast, with a three judge panel in Washington set to hear arguments

this Thursday on whether the merger can move forward during the fight.

Another case in California aims to block it entirely over competition concerns.

As the battles play out in court, the outcome could reshape TV ownership rules and how broadcasters

stack up against streaming giants.