FCC Chairman Kevin
Martin has said he wants the agency to wrap up its examination of media ownership and reach a decision by December 18 on how many media outlets one entity can own in a single market. Martin is playing
it cagey on what he wants, but Dorgan says it is "certain" Martin would propose to lift restrictions on cross-ownership between newspapers and radio and television stations, along with easing of other
ownership rules.
A spokeswoman for the FCC declines comment. Consumer groups and Democrats on the FCC are worried that further consolidation will eliminate independent voices and harm local news coverage.
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