equal-time rule

The equal-time rule specifies that U.S. radio and television broadcast stations must provide an equivalent opportunity to any opposing political candidates who request it. This means, for example that if a station gives one free minute to a candidate on the prime time, it must do the same for another candidate.

However, there are four exceptions: if the air-time was in a documentary, bona fide news interview, scheduled newscast or an on-the-spot news event the equal-time rule is not valid. Since 1983, political debates not hosted by the media station are considered news events, thus may include only major-party candidates without having to offer air time to minor-party or independent candidates.

This rule originated in § 18 of the Radio Act of 1927[1]. It was later superseded by the Communications Act of 1934, where the Equal Time Rule is codified as § 315(a).

Another provision of § 315(a) prohibits stations from censoring campaign ads. A related provision, in § 315(b), requires that broadcasters offer time to candidates at the same rate as their "most favored advertiser".

The rule was created because the FCC thought the stations could easily manipulate the outcome of the elections.

The Equal Time rule should not be confused with the Fairness Doctrine, which deals with presenting balanced points of view on matters of public importance.

Sources

• Communications Act of 1934, § 315; codified at 47 U.S.C. § 315
• Radio Act of 1927

External links

• Equal Time Rule in The Museum of Broadcast Communications
• Radio and TV Stations Required to Give Equal Time in Issues of Democracy
• MSN Encarta - Equal Time Rule (Archived 2009-10-31)