In another move that has frustrated networks, the Federal Communications Commission turned around and dismissed indecency charges against two shows, while upholding charges against two others.
With the passage of a law by Congress increasing fines by a factor of 10, the networks want clear guidelines on what constitutes indecency. The FCC is having trouble coming up with the answer.
Fox spokesman Scott Grogin said: "Today's decision highlights our concern about the government's inability to issue consistent, reasoned decisions in highly sensitive First Amendment cases. We look forward to court review, and the clarity we hope it will bring to this area of the law."
The reason the FCC lawyers gave for changing the charges was because they had been aired before policy change concerning enforcement of the indecency rules.
The problem with this is perception. The networks have jumped on it to fuel the idea that the FCC is fickle and impossible to understand.
This is partially the fault of the FCC for letting the two shows be considered without checking to see if the shows were aired before or after policy change.
For all parties the upcoming lawsuit to determine the answers should be welcome to all.
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