Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act of 2025

This bill says the FCC cannot punish a broadcaster or other license holder because of the opinions they air, or the opinions aired by an affiliate. It also blocks the FCC from adding viewpoint-based conditions when it reviews certain transactions or approvals. The bill’s findings stress that the FCC should stay independent and not use investigations or threats to push stations to follow any political agenda.

It does not protect illegal content. The FCC could still act against fraud, obscene or indecent language, illegal lottery ads, or content that counts as incitement under the First Amendment.

• Who is affected: Broadcast stations and other FCC license holders; the FCC.
• What changes: The FCC couldn’t revoke licenses, take action, or set deal conditions because of viewpoints expressed.
• What stays the same: The FCC may still act on fraud, obscenity/indecency, illegal lottery promotions, and incitement.