FCC Probing NPR, PBS on Possible Ad Ban Violation

WASHINGTON, January 31, 2025 – In a move foreshadowed by the conservative manifesto Project 2025, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr announced an investigation into NPR and PBS, alleging that taxpayer-supported member stations have been unlawfully airing advertisements.

Carr, whom Trump designated as Chairman on Jan.20, sent a letter to NPR and PBS on Wednesday claiming that sponsorship messages on their FCC-licensed stations might violate federal rules that prohibit commercial advertising on noncommercial broadcasters.

“I am concerned that NPR and PBS broadcasts could be violating federal law by airing commercials. In particular, it is possible that NPR and PBS member stations are broadcasting underwriting announcements that cross the line into prohibited commercial advertisements,” Carr wrote.