FCC: Issues: Disclosure

Broadcasters should post political public file information on their websites

The Campaign Legal Center has asked that the FCC require disclosure of political public file information on broadcasters' websites.

* Internet posting of political file records would facilitate timely access during peak election activity and alleviate burdens of handling numerous telephone calls and other requests for such information.

° Comcast has recently expressed willingness to improve public file access and to consider a policy allowing customers to access files using a computer terminal at Comcast locations.
Greenberg, Brigitte, Communications Daily, "'Fundamental Misunderstanding': Unions Ask FCC for Maximum Fine Against Comcast Over Documents," Jan. 27, 2004 .

* Website posting would promote discourse and public comment, potentially reducing need for further disclosure regulation.

* Easy access to true sponsorship identification via a website is especially pertinent in light of recent tactics of issue advocacy groups such as section 527 organizations.

Chappie, Damon, Roll Call, "Appeals Court Upholds 527 Disclosure Law," Jan. 5, 2004 .
Weissman, Steve, Kim Conger and Nick Turner, The Campaign Finance Institute, "New Internal Revenue Service Political Website a Bonanza of Campaign Finance Information for Journalists and Voters," July 14, 2003 .

* The Supreme Court favors disclosure of campaign and election information.

See McConnell v. FEC, 124 S.Ct.619 (2003).