Sponsors (3)
Creates new federal steps to increase ownership of broadcast stations by socially disadvantaged individuals by (1) requiring the FCC to collect data and report recommendations, (2) establishing a tax‑certificate program to encourage sales to socially disadvantaged owners, and (3) creating a transferable tax credit for donations of stations to certified charities that train socially disadvantaged people. The bill sets reporting and certification duties for the FCC, rules and limits on eligible sales and holding periods, a one‑year delayed start for the tax‑certificate program, a 16‑year sunset for that program, and tax treatment changes effective for taxable years after enactment.
Defines “broadcast station” by referring to the meaning given in section 3 of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 153).
Defines “Commission” to mean the Federal Communications Commission.
Defines “owned by socially disadvantaged individuals” by referring to the meaning given in section 346(a) of the Communications Act of 1934, as added by section 5(a)(1) of this Act.
One of the main missions of the Commission, and a compelling governmental interest, is to ensure that there is a diversity of ownership and viewpoints in the broadcasting industry.
The Commission should continue to collect relevant data on the diversity described in paragraph (1), adopt improvements to that data collection and related studies, and make appropriate recommendations to Congress regarding how to increase the number of minority- and women-owned broadcast stations.
Affected parties and effects:
Socially disadvantaged individuals (prospective broadcast owners): Receive targeted incentives and increased opportunities to acquire and control broadcast stations through tax‑preferred sales and donations combined with training programs. The program lowers tax costs for sellers transferring stations to these buyers and supports capacity building through required training by certified charities.
Sellers and investors of broadcast stations: Sellers may benefit from nonrecognition (deferred tax) treatment when selling qualifying stations to socially disadvantaged buyers; this may make some sales more attractive. Buyers must meet holding periods and ongoing certifications. Investors and brokers will face new deal structures and compliance steps.
Charitable organizations: Eligible charities can receive donated stations and claim a tax credit equal to fair market value but must be FCC‑certified and provide training programs for socially disadvantaged individuals and hold the donated asset for at least two years. Certification requirements and program delivery create administrative burdens.
Federal Communications Commission: Faces new regulatory duties—rulemakings, certifications of charities, issuing sale certificates, collecting improved ownership data, and reporting to Congress—requiring resources and processes to oversee compliance.
Federal tax administration and Treasury: Will administer new tax code provisions (nonrecognition for qualifying sales and a new business credit) that likely defer or reduce federal revenue in the short term; careful design and audits will be needed to prevent abuse and ensure compliance.
Broadcasting industry and markets: Could see increased transactions structured to qualify for incentives, potential changes in station valuations where tax benefits apply, and modest redistribution of ownership toward targeted groups over the program's life. Smaller or regional broadcasters may be particularly affected since many stations are owned by small businesses.
Risks and tradeoffs:
Broadcast VOICES Act
Updated 3 days ago
Last progress June 18, 2025 (7 months ago)
Last progress June 10, 2025 (8 months ago)
Introduced on June 10, 2025 by Steven Horsford
Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.