June 30 Electronic Newsroom Technique deadline rapidly approaching

On June 30, all broadcasters currently eligible to use Electronic Newsroom Technique (ENT) must comply with new “Enhanced ENT” requirements adopted by the FCC in February of this year.

The FCC had originally proposed phasing out ENT use in all markets – which would have required live captioning for all local programming.

“Enhanced ENT” and the FCC new rules dictate scripting requirements for in-studio programming, weather interstitials and live programming and require broadcasters to train staff and appoint an “ENT coordinator.”

Another benefit of the Enhanced ENT rules is the opportunity to correct ENT issues and complaints well before facing FCC enforcement.    

It is important to note that after one year, the National Association of Broadcasters will be required, with the help of consumer groups, to write a report to the FCC on the state of Enhanced ENT.

The FCC will evaluate any use of ENT after this period.

To explain the new requirements and help answer questions, the NAB produced an informative webinar featuring the FCC and broadcast law experts. 

The NAB has also prepared a legal memo that outlines the new requirements.

Questions?  Contact TAB's Michael Schneider or call (512) 322-9944.